Great news students and teachers! If you've been researching the best Apple back-to-school deals in 2025, the Apple Education Store special offers are now live through September 30.

Whether you are in the market for a new MacBook, iPad, or iMac, you can select a free pair of AirPods or select accessories with the MacBook or iPad. If you just need the MacBook or iPad, you can find a deeper discount amoung our best MacBook deals or best iPad deals, but the free AirPods or accessory changes that math during the back-to-school season.

Prices start from $899 for the MacBook Air M4 — the best-value MacBook you can get and a rare 5-star Editor's Choice laptop. Eligible free items are:

• AirPods 4 with ANC
• AirPods Pro 2
• Magic Mouse
• Magic Trackpad
• Magic Keyboard with Touch ID.

Apple offers a similar back-to-school deal on the iPad Air and iPad Pro, but free options only include the Apple Pencil Pro or AirPods 4. The following AirPods and accessories are available at a discount of $119-$129, so you just pay the listed shown here:

• AirPods 4 with ANC ($50)
• AirPods Pro 2 ($120)
• Magic Keyboard for iPad Air 11-inch ($130)
• Magic Keyboard for iPad Air 13-inch ($180)
• Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro 11-inch ($160)
• Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro 13-inch ($210)

Of course other retailers also have great Apple deals for back-to-school season, so if you're looking for the best Apple back-to-school deals, there are plenty of ways to save.

Browse our favorite Apple back-to-school deals below.

Apple back-to-school deals — Quick links

• Apple Edu Store: up to $100 off MacBooks, iPads, + free AirPods or accessory
• Amazon: up to $400 off MacBook, iPad, AirPods, Apple Watch, more
• B&H: up to $300 off MacBook Air, up to $400 off MacBook Pro
• Best Buy: up to $200 off MacBook Air, up to $700 off MacBook Pro
• Walmart: Save on MacBooks, iPads, and Apple accessories

Apple back-to-school Apple deals

MacBooks

iPads

Apple Watch

AirPods

Could Apple's next iPad Pro feature a folding design? After more display specs leaked on Monday, the long-rumored folding iPad may still be in the works at Apple.

Weibo-based tipster Digital Chat Station — who has a record of leaking information about foldable tech — posted on the Chinese social media site that a prototype for a foldable 18.8-inch iPad includes an under-display FaceID sensor. Here's the full posting:

"Guoguo also has a Foldable iPad Pro, the engineering version has an 18.8-inch screen and uses a metal meta-lens. It mainly integrates Face ID Rx and Tx for under-screen 3D face recognition. Are you interested in a foldable tablet?"

If true, this update would confirm that Apple is still working on a foldable iPad. However, the post didn't go into further detail about the prototype, but this is not the first we've heard about it.

Rumors about a folding iPad or all-screen MacBook have been circulating for at least a year, especially since Apple filed a patent for a hinge for foldable displays in March 2024.

Of course, this hinge could be for an iPhone, but in May 2024, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that a much larger foldable device is in the works — a giant iPad or an all-screen MacBook. According to Kuo, the device will reportedly feature an 18.8-inch or 20.5-inch display, which would be similar to a 14-inch or 15-inch laptop when folded.

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reported similar rumors even more recently in December 2024, hinting that the mysterious foldable could be some sort of iPad-MacBook hybrid.

Monday's leak that this upcoming foldable may feature under-display FaceID could mean it won't have a camera notch, so it would be truly all-screen. It would make sense for Apple to pursue a notch-free design so the foldable can be used in portrait or landscape mode. However, this rumor is referring to a prototype, so the specs and features of the final design are still in flux.

However, at the very least this rumor seems to indicate that Apple is still working on a foldable iPad or MacBook of some kind. The question now is, when could it launch?

When could Apple release the foldable iPad Pro?

Apple has yet to officially confirm that it is developing a foldable iPad or all-screen MacBook. Rumors about this mysterious device indicate that it's still in the early stages of development. However, there have been some hints about when Apple might announce it.

Kuo reported last year that "the target mass production schedule for the panel and assembly is 4Q25 and 1H26, respectively," referring to the 20.5-inch and 18.8-inch sizes. Kuo also predicted that the foldable will feature the M5 chip. For context, Apple's latest iPads and MacBooks are currently running on the M4 series chips. So, this means the foldable won't launch until at least 2026. If Kuo's predictions for the device's mass production timeline pan out, it might not launch until 2027.

Bloomberg's Gurman reported an even later launch window estimate of 2028. Gurman also predicted the foldable will ultimately run iPadOS, not macOS, meaning it will be more of a large, foldable tablet than a laptop.

It's too soon to say for sure what category Apple's all-screen foldable will fall into or exactly when it will launch, but it seems like we won't see it until 2027 at the earliest.

More from Laptop Mag

• All-screen foldable MacBook: Everything we know so far
• Where to preorder the M3 iPad Air and the best deals so far
• The iPad 11 is Apple's most unintelligent move in years — don't fall for it

Launched in May 2024, Apple's iPad Pro M4 is the most advanced tablet from the brand yet. If you want a portable M4 Macbook alternative, here's a deal you'll like.

Amazon continues to offer the base model 13-inch Apple iPad Pro M4 for $1,099 for Presidents' Day. That's a generous $200 discount, down from $1,299 and its biggest markdown yet! Not only is this the 13-inch iPad Pro M4's lowest price ever, it's also one of the best tablet deals I've seen since the holidays. Not to be outdone, Best Buy mirrors this deal.

If 256GB of storage doesn't cut it for you, Amazon offers the 512GB iPad Pro M4 for $1,299 ($200 off), the 1TB iPad Pro M4 for $1,699 ($200 off), and the 2TB iPad Pro M4 for $2,099 ($200 off).

The iPad Pro M4 is powerful enough to replace your laptop. Get yourself an iPad Magic Keyboard Case and convert it into a mini Macbook. Apple's blazing M4 9-core chip makes the newest iPad Pro 50% faster than the 2022 M2 iPad Pro. In terms of GPU performance, it's four times faster so expect graphics-intensive tasks to run smoothly.

At $200 off, the iPad Pro M4 is at its best price yet. It's a wise choice if you're looking for a super-portable laptop alternative.

Best 13-inch iPad Pro M4 deal

13-inch iPad Pro M4 Accessories

Apple's next-gen M5 chip could launch sooner than you might think, but probably not in the device you'd expect.

It's been over six months since Apple launched the M4 chip in the iPad Pro on May 7, 2024. Since then, the M4 chip has also made its way into the MacBook Pro, but has yet to arrive on the MacBook Air. Despite that, Apple is already getting the M5 chip ready for launch.

Here's a look at the latest update on Apple's M5 chip, when it could launch, and what devices we'll see it in first.

Apple M5 chip enters mass production

On Wednesday, South Korean technology news outlet ET News reported that Apple's M5 chip has entered mass production in Taiwan. The report also indicates that mass production will be taking place sequentially with "USA Amco and China JCET."

This appears to be a reference to Amkor, which struck a deal with Apple in 2023 to produce its chips at a new facility in Arizona. Apple is already producing some of its mobile chips, including the A16 processor, in the U.S., but this is an apt time for Apple to move even more of its production stateside given the looming threat of import tariffs.

Of course, at the time of writing, the Amkor facility is only completing the packaging part of the chip production process, meaning Apple still relies on components from manufacturing partners overseas.

The ET News report doesn't shed much light on the exact details or specs of any of the M5 chips, but it does highlight an increased emphasis on AI.

That's to be expected considering Apple launched its on-device AI platform, Apple Intelligence, at WWDC 2024 back in June. Apple Intelligence is still rolling out, but Apple is clearly working to keep up with its competitors' AI offerings, such as Microsoft's Copilot+ PC line-up.

Apple M5 release date: Which devices will get the M5 chip first?

If these rumors are true and the M5 chip has entered mass production, the next question is when will it launch? Perhaps even more important, what device will get the M5 chip first?

The answer may leave some Apple fans disappointed, unfortunately.

Current rumors indicate that the iPad Pro will most likely be the first device to get the M5 chip. This was also the case with the M4 chip, which launched with the new iPad Pro in May 2024. One might expect Apple to launch its new chips with the MacBook Pro instead, which was the case for the M1, M2, and M3 chips, but apparently the iPad Pro will be leading the charge for now.

According to reputable Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the iPad Pro M5 will be entering mass production in the second half of 2025, so we could see the M5 chip launch by the end of the year. That's later than last year's May M4 launch, but it's always possible this rumor is off and Apple is still eyeing another May launch window for the M5 chip.

After the iPad Pro, we should see the M5 chip in the MacBook Pro next, probably in late 2025, followed by the MacBook Air in 2026. An M5-powered Vision Pro successor is also possible, although Apple's headset strategy is a bit up in the air right now following the cancellation of its AR smart glasses project.

We're keeping a close eye on all things Apple, so stay tuned for more updates on the M5 chip, the new iPad Pro, and the M5 MacBooks.

More from Laptop Mag

• Why Apple's scrapped smart glasses are a bad omen for the Vision Pro\
• One crucial feature could give Samsung an early victory over Apple in the headset wars
• This hidden macOS Sequoia trick fixes one of your MacBook's most persistent quirks

The latest iPad Pro M4 made waves last year when Apple decided to make it the first device to receive the current-gen M4 chip. Fast forward to 2025 and it's continued to garner high praise since its release for overall performance and battery life.

Thanks to an epic deal going on right now, this powerful tablet that's been named by many as the best tablet available could be yours for just $879.

BJ's continues to offer the 11-inch iPad Pro M4 for $879. Regularly $949 at BJ's, that's $70 in savings and $20 cheaper than Amazon's current deal price. If you consider the iPad Pro M4 starts at $999 at full price from other retailers, you're really getting $120 in savings.

For BJ's members, you'll get these savings automatically. If you're a non-member, you can still take advantage of this deal by using the free 1-day online pass at checkout.

This discounted iPad Pro configuration features a gorgeous 11-inch, 2752 x 2064-pixel Ultra Retina XDR OLED display, an M4 chipset with a 9-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. It's capable of Apple Intelligence and boasts support for the Apple Pencil Pro, Apple Pencil, and a plethora of wireless keyboards and mice.

Considering how much power the iPad Pro M4 packs, it can easily double as a laptop alternative, even for more demanding productivity tasks and content creation.

If you don't feel like you need all that power in a tablet and you're looking for a more basic tablet that's simply capable of managing emails, streaming media, and browsing the web, check out the other best iPad deals we've found for January to see more affordable options.

This deal ends February 23.

Today's best iPad Pro M4 deal

With 2025 already gathering pace, it's time to turn our attention away from last year's hottest tech and look forward to a coming year of innovation.

While 2024 had plenty to showcase for Apple, including the excellent performance and efficiency of the M4 chip powering iPad Pro and MacBook Pro devices, this year promises to take things up a notch once again, delivering a swathe of upgrades throughout the Apple catalog and introduce the new M5 chip to select hardware.

So, what can we expect to see from Apple in the coming year? Let's find out.

Apple's product roadmap for 2025: The year ahead for MacBook, iPhone, iPad, and more

Between Apple's more "fixed" annual events, historically repeated release windows, and unofficial claims from reputable sources, we can paint a pretty detailed image of what's to come for the Cupertino-based company in 2025.

Of course, there's no guarantee that everything listed here will be released according to our estimates. Last year's iPad mini 7 was a prime example of how even the most in-the-know sources can be left guessing when it comes to the arrival of a new product.

However, as of the time of writing, these are our more informed predictions regarding Apple's itinerary of releases, starting in spring, 2025.

March - May, 2025

Putting aside last year's showcase of the Vision Pro in February, Apple typically waits a few calendar months before dropping any major reveals. If the company follows suit in 2025, then we can probably expect the majority of its next products to arrive in the spring.

• iPhone SE 4: One of the more anticipated iPhone releases in years comes by way of Apple's budget offering, the iPhone SE 4 — or, as rumors suggest, the newly named iPhone 16E.
  
  The new iPhone SE is expected to receive a full redesign, bringing it more in line with the look of post-iPhone 14 handsets, while adopting an OLED display with Face ID, the iPhone 15's Action Button, and an Apple Intelligence-ready processor (likely an A17 Pro or A18 Bionic chip paired with 8GB of RAM).
  
• MacBook Air M4: According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air models featuring the M4 chip will launch early this year, closing the gap in performance between its MacBook Pro models, which are also set for a silicon refresh later this year.
  
• iPad 11: Similarly, Gurman reports that the 11th generation of iPad will also be released in the spring, offering several design changes and an Apple Intelligence-compatible chip, potentially the A17 Pro.
  
• iPad Air M4: Similar to its laptop counterpart, the iPad Air is also claimed to be due for an M4 upgrade, bringing more Pro-level performance to the ultra-thin slate in the near future.

June, 2025

Since 2007, Apple's annual WWDC (Worldwide Developer Conference) has historically fallen in the month of June, giving us a pretty solid expectation of when we'll get our first look at the latest milestone operating system updates for MacBook, iPhone, iPad, and more.

• macOS 16
• iOS 19
• iPadOS 19
• watchOS 12
• visionOS 3
• tvOS 19

September, 2025

Apple's star-studded line-up of mobile tech typically takes center stage in September, meaning it's here we can expect to see the unveiling of the 11th-Gen Apple Watch (including the third-generation Ultra and SE models), new third-generation AirPods Pro, and the iPhone 17 family of smartphones — including the rumored new "Air" model, alongside familiar Pro and Pro Max options.

• iPhone 17: This year's iPhone 17 line-up will reportedly ditch the "Plus" model for a thinner and lighter "Air" alternative featuring a new single-lens 48-megapixel rear camera — a bold design change that according to The Information will extend to the iPhone 17 Pro models also, switching things up to a horizontal camera array and potentially stepping away from the titanium chassis of the iPhone 15 Pro and 16 Pro.
  
• Apple Watch 11: The Apple Watch Series 11 is expected to include new blood pressure monitoring and blood-glucose tracking features, along with the potential adoption of Apple Intelligence. The next generation of Apple Watch will likely be powered by the S12 chipset, potentially offering better efficiency and a longer-lasting battery life.
  
• Apple Watch Ultra 3: The much anticipated Apple Watch Ultra 3 is rumored to include satellite connectivity and 5G access, but won't be adopting the micro-LED display tech after Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that the company will be sidelining this adoption for the "foreseeable future."
  
• Apple Watch SE 3: The third-generation Apple Watch SE was expected to arrive sometime in 2024. However, clearly, we've been left wanting.
  
  Apple's smartwatch is expected to pull back on price by offering a plastic chassis and an S9 chip, and it is rumored that it will feature a "new look" redesign by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. While we could see this device appear far earlier in the year, it may make the most sense for it to launch alongside other Apple Watch models in September.
  
• AirPods Pro 3: The third generation of Apple's AirPods Pro are reported to receive a new design (including its charging case) in 2025 alongside an improved H3 chip affording better noise-cancellation and potentially more health-based features.

Beyond hardware releases, September is also the month that Apple's new operating systems leave beta testing and receive public releases. We'd expect further Apple Intelligence integration across the board here, along with the usual supply of handy, platform-specific features.

• macOS 16, iOS 19, iPadOS 19, and more to release

October - November, 2025

• MacBook Pro M5: Apple's crowning achievement in hardware could come by way of a new M5-powered 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro released later this year. Currently tipped for an October 2025 release, the M5 MacBook Pro would pave the way for Pro, Max, and Ultra models to follow.
  
• iPad Pro M5: With the iPad Air expected to receive an M4 upgrade earlier this year, it stands to reason that the Pro model of iPad may face a similar boost in performance, also adopting Apple's latest M5 chip late into 2025. Last year's iPad Pro was the first device to feature the company's M4 chip, and Apple may choose to award its high-performance slate with a similar refresh once again.
  
• HomePod mini: There are several rumors suggesting that work is well underway at Apple in the development of a new smart home hub with a display. However, the jury is still out on whether we can expect this product to arrive in 2025. In the meantime, Apple is expected to refresh the HomePod mini with a faster chip, improved WiFi and Bluetooth, and more colorways.

Outlook

Taking into account everything we've heard or know so far, 2025 is set to be a pretty stacked card for Apple. All of these anticipated announcements have the potential to satisfy a great many macOS, iOS, and even iPadOS users.

That's without mentioning some of the more exciting rumors surrounding a new Apple Vision Pro headset, a foldable iPhone, and a super-sized 17-inch to 20-inch foldable iPad — all rumored wildcards that may or may not feature in some way this year.

More from Laptop Mag

• MacBook Air vs. MacBook Pro: Which Mac should you buy in 2025?
• MacBook Air M4 vs. MacBook Air M3: Should you wait for the M4 Air?
• Dear Apple, it's 2025, where’s my MacBook SE?

The 13-inch Apple iPad Pro M4 is a lust-worthy tablet, and for good reason. This model has Apple's latest and fastest chip inside, paired with the largest display found in an Apple tablet. Right now, you can pick up a 13-inch Apple iPad Pro M4 for $1,099 at Amazon.

That price is the lowest ever for the 13-inch iPad Pro M4. It represents a full 15% discount over the usual $1,299 price. And it's a price we hadn't seen until this month. Note: The $1,099 price is currently only valid on the Space Gray version of the 13-inch iPad Pro.

The 13-inch iPad Pro M4 packs a roomy 2,072 x 2,064 pixel Ultra Retina XDR OLED screen with ProMotion, P3 wide color gamut, and an antireflective screen coating. Its large screen size makes this model a viable MacBook Air M3 laptop replacement for some people, especially when paired with Apple's optional $349 Magic Keyboard.

Inside sits Apple's fast 9-core M4 chip, which Apple says makes the 2024 iPad Pro 50% faster than its M2 predecessor. This tablet consumes less power, and it has 4X the graphics performance of the M2 model (so games, content creation tasks, and animations can run even more smoothly than before).

Even though peak holiday shopping is now behind us, this 13-inch Apple iPad Pro M4 deal shows some great deals are still out there, just waiting to get snapped up by intrepid post-holiday shoppers.

Today's best iPad Pro M4 deal

Apple's 2024 iPad Pro M4 is a portable alternative to the recently launched MacBook M4 notebooks. One of today's best early holiday deals drops the iPad Pro M4 to an all-time low price ahead of Black Friday.

Best Buy is now selling the 512GB 11-inch iPad Pro M4 on sale for $1,099. It normally costs $1,199, so that's $100 off and one of the top iPad deals of the season. My Best Buy Plus members save an extra $50 at checkout which drops it to $1,049 ($150 off). My Best Buy Plus costs $49.99 so the $50 discount pays for the membership.

Alternatively, you can buy the 256GB 11-inch iPad Pro M4 for $899 ($100 off) with My Best Buy Plus. You can also get the larger 512GB 13-inch iPad Pro for $1,399 ($150 off) with Plus.

Featuring Apple's blazing M4 9-core chip, the 2024 iPad Pro is 50% faster than the 2022 M2 iPad Pro and uses just half the power. Its GPU performance is 4X times faster so mobile games and other graphics-intensive tasks run smoother than ever.

Pair the iPad Pro M4 with Apple's Magic Keyboard Case (sold separately for $299) or Logitech's $259 Combo Touch Keyboard Case and you'll have an ultraportable mini laptop.

Now up to $150 off, the iPad Pro M4 is worth considering if you're looking for a travel-friendly productivity device.

Today's best iPad Pro M4 deal

Apple's decision to debut its latest M4 chipset on its latest 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro models in May gave its premium tablets a sizeable boost in interest. However, a new report suggests that interest, and the demand that came with it, have considerably dropped — and several factors may be to blame.

Apple M4 iPad Pro: 

A recently published report by DSCC supply chain analyst Ross Young, a reliable source of information surrounding Apple's iPhone and iPads both pre and post-release, highlights a scaling back of production of the M4 iPad Pro's OLED panels, suggesting that Apple may have overestimated the demand for its latest tablet.

According to Young, the number of panels expected to ship (and to feature in this new iPad model) was originally estimated to be around 10 million for this calendar year. However, Young believes the actual numbers will be closer to, if not below, 7 million.

Does this suggest that the M4 iPad Pro is a flop? Not at all. However, it suggests that regardless of the impressive stream of upgrades available in Apple's latest slate, it's just not appealing to customers at the scale the company initially hoped for. So, what's to blame?

Apple's M4 iPad woe: What's to blame?

While the new M4 iPad Pro is impressive, it's not without its faults. Putting aside the recent iPadOS 18 update that was rendering Apple's latest iPad Pros inoperable, the lower-than-expected demand for this premium slate may have more to do with its price and its potential.

The starting price for the 11 and 13-inch M4 iPad Pro is $999 and $1,299, respectively — a sizeable investment that can skyrocket to $2,599 if you want the highest configuration available.

While the latter price is likely reserved for those seeking to use the M4 iPad Pro as a laptop replacement, that staggering price also doesn't factor in the cost of the new Apple Pencil Pro ($129) or Magic Keyboard ($349) which can further push the price of the iPad Pro to $3,077, and that's without factoring in the cost of your AppleCare+ plan, too.

That's a staggering amount of money to spend on a tablet, which is often seen as a secondary to a good laptop or smartphone, and rarely as a primary device. Especially when, according to survey data provided by Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP), up to 42% of iPhone users will offset the cost of a newer model by trading in, while only 3% of iPad owners will do the same — which can greatly limit how often fans of Apple's slate will be able to upgrade and make its price a much taller hurdle to clear.

There's also the issue of justifying the inflated price of the M4 iPad Pro, and we don't just mean in relation to its much more affordable 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air counterparts (which start at $599 and $799, respectively). The inclusion of the M4 chip makes the new iPad Pro among the most powerful in Apple's catalog. However, there's very little that iPadOS has to offer that will allow users to take full advantage of that.

I've long been a believer that the iPad Pro has outgrown iPadOS, but with touchscreen MacBooks still being a thing of fantasy there's no framework for macOS to make the leap to Apple's slates at the present time. Leaving us with an impressively powerful tablet, and very little to do with it.

Outlook

Another factor that could affect sales of the M4 iPad Pro is that many Apple users could be waiting on future M4 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models, the latter of which we expect to see unveiled during Apple's upcoming October Mac and iPad event.

Thanks to macOS Sequoia, these platforms are less restrictive than iPadOS, allowing users to take full advantage of Apple's latest M4 chipset, and do so at a more justifiable price than the $1,000+ iPad Pros.

More from Laptop Mag

• The iPad Pro M4 has outgrown iPadOS, but is it ready for macOS?
• Is the new iPad Pro M4 good enough to replace your laptop?
• iPad Pro M4 vs. iPad Air 6: Which new iPad will be right for you?

It's been a big week for Apple, as Monday saw the company offer sweeping updates to its iPhone, Mac, and Watch devices through its latest major milestone operating system releases in iOS 18, macOS Sequoia, and watchOS 11.

However, while these feature flush updates are now available to all, some iPad models won't be receiving the latest iPadOS 18 update as Apple has temporarily paused its rollout.

Apple's decision to pull the update is in response to several claims that its latest software update is rendering its premium iPad Pro models completely inoperable.

iPadOS 18: Something wicked this way comes

iPadOS 18 was released alongside its Apple operating system brethren on Monday, but it wasn't long before iPad users reported major issues with the update.

Murmurings of problems surrounding the release of iPadOS 18 arose on Reddit after one user claimed that the update had 'bricked' their device. Bricking, in this sense, indicates that the device in question has become completely unusable or unresponsive — typically in a way that renders the device irreparable.

Before long, several other users had reported the same issue in response or parallel threads, all with one thing in common: they were all owners of Apple's latest M4 models of iPad Pro, a device that can cost up to $2,599 in its highest configuration.

One user shared that following diagnostics performed on their M4 iPad Pro by the Apple Store, they were told that their iPad would "never turn on again." Several other users confirmed this assessment, claiming Apple Store employees had confirmed their hardware had failed.

Thankfully, due to Apple's one-year warranty for the iPad Pro M4, the user has since been offered a replacement. However, other users report longer support pipelines, with many being directed to senior support channels. Those who are eligible for replacements are reportedly facing waits of 3-5 days.

Apple's response to iPadOS update woes

It would seem that issues surrounding the iPadOS 18 update are limited to M4 iPad Pro models, and users shouldn't be too concerned about updating their iPad as normal — though Apple always recommends performing a backup and leaving your device on charge throughout the process, just in case.

While it was initially suspected that the fault could be a result of M4 iPad Pro users downloading the concurrently available iPadOS 17.7 patch before applying the latest iPadOS 18 update, several users have reported the same issue without installing the earlier version beforehand.

In a statement provided to MacRumors, Apple responded to the fault, saying "We have temporarily removed the iPadOS 18 update for M4 iPad Pro models as we work to resolve an issue that is impacting a small number of devices."

Apple has previously had to remove software updates for both iOS 17.3 and iPadOS 17.3 after similar incidents of device bricking occurred. Apple has not yet announced a timeline for when M4 iPad Pro users can expect iPadOS 18 to become available to download once more.

More from Laptop Mag

• Apple October Event: What to expect from Mac M4 and iPad
• Best iPad deals of September 2024: Today's top discounts
• Amazon drops iPad 9 to $199 ahead of Prime Big Deal Days 2024

Apple's iPad Pro M4 tablet is powered by the same hardware expected to arrive in its next-gen M4 MacBook series. Before Apple's October event is announced, Amazon's end-of-summer sale is slashing prices on iPads.  

One ongoing deal this week is the iPad Pro M4 for $899 at Amazon. It normally costs $999 so that's a $100 off and Amazon's lowest-ever price for this 11-inch iPad Pro M4. This is an excellent deal since you're getting the iPad Pro M4 for an all-time low price ahead of Prime Big Deal Days. If you want a bigger display (and bigger savings), the 13-inch iPad Pro is on sale for $1,195 ($105 off) and just $5 shy of its all-time low price, which it hit just days ago.

The 13-inch iPad Pro does double duty as a laptop when paired with a  Magic Keyboard Case (sold separately for $339) or Logitech's Combo Touch Keyboard Case for $199 ($30 off). Logitech's Pebble 2 Wireless Keyboard and Mouse combo for $55 ($5 off) is also worth considering. 

Launched in May 2024, the iPad Pro M4 is the first iDevice to feature the blazing-fast Apple M4 9-core CPU. By comparison, it's 50% faster than the older model M2 and uses just half the power. In terms of GPU performance, it’s a whopping 4X times faster. iPad Pro M4 users can expect games and other graphics-intensive tasks to run smoother than ever before. 

Now up to $105 off, the iPad Pro M4 is Apple's most powerful tablet yet and a solid buy if you want a portable device for getting things done on the go.

Today's best iPad Pro M4 deal

Now that the iPad Pro M4 has made its debut, Best Buy is trying to move its iPad Pro M2 stock to make room. Luckily for you, that means the cellular model Apple 11-inch iPad Pro M2 just dipped to $699.

Typically $999, this is a whopping $300 in savings and the lowest price we've ever seen for this 11-inch iPad. And no Best Buy Plus membership is required to snag these savings!

While the iPad Pro M4 is more powerful than the iPad Pro M2, its overkill for most users. In our 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 review, we rated it 4 out of 5 stars and awarded it our Editor's Choice badge for its stunning display, fantastic speakers, and strong performance, capable of doubling as a productive laptop when paired with Apple's Magic keyboard.

And if the iPad Pro M2 offers plenty of performance power, why not buy this last-gen model at an epic discount? 

If you're looking for a bigger display and more storage, Best Buy slashed the 12.9-inch iPad Pro with 1TB of storage to $1,299 ($700 off). Or, if you want to see all your options before making a decision, check out the best iPad deals we've seen lately.

Today's best iPad Pro M2 cellular deal

Prime Day 2024 isn't until July, but Amazon isn't hearing all that. The online retailer is not holding back when it comes to slashing prices on Apple products. 

Currently, the 13-inch iPad Pro M4 with 256GB is on sale for $1,219 at Amazon. Usually, it retails for $1,299 so you're saving $80 with this deal. If it sells out, Staples has it for the same price. You're getting the iPad Pro M4 for its lowest price ever in one of the best pre-Prime Day iPad deals of the season.

If you need more wiggle room for your files, B&H offers the 512GB model 13-inch iPad Pro M4 for $1,399 ($100 off). 

The 2024 iPad Pro is the first device to feature Apple's blazing-fast new 9-core M4 chip. It's 50% faster than the older model M2 and uses just half the power. In terms of GPU performance, it’s a whooping 4X times faster. This means with the iPad Pro M4, you can expect games and other graphics-intensive tasks to run smoother than ever before. 

If you want to snag Apple's most powerful tablet sooner rather than later, this iPad Pro M4 deal is worth considering. Quantities are moving fast, so I recommend you act now.

Today's best iPad Pro M4 deal

Spring into summer savings is the running theme of retail right now. Rightfully so. Memorial Day, May 27 marks the unofficial kick-off to summer. Beyond essentials for typical summer activities like backyard parties and traveling, you’ll also find great Memorial Day deals on must-have tech. 

Good bargains come to those who wait and if you’ve been holding off on buying an iPad Pro, your patience paid off. 

After much anticipation from Apple fans, the iPad Pro M4 is finally here. Naturally, pretty much every size and storage capacity iPad Pro M2 is seeing price drops. One tempting deal worth considering is the 512GB model11-inch iPad Pro M2 for $999 ($100 off) at B&H. By comparison, it's $200 cheaper than the 512GB iPad Pro M4 which costs $1,199.

If you're shopping around for a bargain on Apple's pro-grade tablet, don't underestimate the iPad Pro M2. With its incredible display and powerful performance, alongside Magic keyboard and Apple Pencil support, it's still one of the best tablets around. Like its M4-charged successor, it can and will replace your laptop. 

And that's just one of the best iPad Pro deals you can grab sooner rather than later. Keep scrolling for more savings on Apple's mightiest iPad.

Best iPad Pro deals

• 11" iPad Pro M4: was $999 now $949 @ Amazon
• 13" iPad Pro M4: was $1,299 now $1,249 @ Best Buy w/ Plus
• 11" iPad Pro M2: was $799 now $749 @ B&H
• 11" iPad Pro M2 (512GB): was $1,099 now $999 @ B&H
• 12.9" iPad Pro M2 (256GB): was $1,199 now $1,099 @ B&H

iPad Pro M4 (2024)

iPad Pro M2 (2022)

Apple just unveiled its latest slew of iPad Pros and iPad Airs, and the biggest question on everyone’s mind is: can I use it as a laptop?

I used the iPad Pro as a laptop for a week back in 2023, which did not impress me. The Stage Manager did the heavy lifting, but iPadOS couldn’t escape the bones it's built upon — iOS. If you use a phone’s operating system on a laptop, you’ll experience immense constraints. 

I also had a problem with the Magic Keyboard, but has the new Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro changed anything? Do the software updates improve the iPadOS experience? Can I finally use it as a laptop?

I wouldn't, and here’s why.

The new Magic Keyboard does make it a better laptop

I said what I said. The Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro is an improvement, making the transition between laptop and tablet seamless. What’s changed?

The new Magic Keyboard expands the size of the touchpad. One con I mentioned in my article concerned the small touchpad on the Magic Keyboard. Hours of productivity work are uncomfortable. Expanding the touchpad improves its usability. I haven’t touched it yet, so I can’t say how much better it is, but any size increase is helpful.

That’s not all. Apple introduced the function row, expanding its keys to align with standard laptop keyboards. It first debuted on the 10th Gen iPad, but now we have a unique model for the iPad Pro. The function keys give you easy access to display brightness, Stage Manager, microphone, media inputs, and a screen lock. Wait, there’s one more key — Esc. Yes, this most fundamental keyboard key completely changes your iPad use. This shouldn’t impress me, but after years of moving to the screen or touchpad to get out of an app or window, it’s like finding an oasis in the desert.

We’ve had access to the function keys for a while now, but that, combined with the increased touchpad, offers a better overall laptop experience. So why won’t the new iPad Pro M4 make me switch?

iPadOS still works like a tablet

iPadOS 17 brought plenty of new features, including the personalized lock screen, interactive widgets, updates to iMessage and FaceTime, and a more flexible Stage Manager. The update to Stage Manager is great. It lets you move and resize windows so you can customize your productivity experience. So what’s the problem? The little things.

The iPad is a first-party machine built with first-party apps in mind. Third-party apps from big brands like Google or Microsoft are not optimized for iPadOS. Apple always puts its products and services above the rest, but if it wants its tablets to work for all users, something's got to give. 

I love that we got a bigger touchpad, but how do we use it? There’s been no word on software improvements around the touchpad experience. When I spent a week with the previous Magic Keyboard, selecting text was frustrating because you couldn’t click and drag like a regular laptop. You need to double-click. Search bars in browsers also required double clicks to register.

Optimizing the desktop experience for laptops and PCs is what software engineers have done over the years, but iPadOS feels like a step backward in that direction. Everything felt like it took an additional step than necessary.

What comes next?

Apple didn’t mention anything regarding third-party apps or the touchpad experience, so it seems like nothing changed from afar, but I haven’t used it myself. We’re actively testing the new slew of iPads launched during Apple’s "Let Loose" event so that you can expect total reviews on Laptop Mag.

However, I am not excited about the M4 performance on the iPad Pro — what good is power if it doesn’t feel good to use? And if all the issues I had with the iPad were the same, wouldn’t it make more sense to purchase a macOS laptop? It’s not like you’re saving money with the iPad Pro. Yeah, it starts at $999, but you get bamboozled by the $300 Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro.

You shouldn’t have to pay that much money for a keyboard. Unless you’re an artist, you’re better off with the MacBook Air 13-inch (M3), which is still ridiculously portable at 0.44 inches thin and 2.7 pounds light. 

Apple's announcement of the new iPad Pro M4 during Tuesday's "Let Loose" event has garnered some flak in the days following the company's decision to market its latest tablet in a way deemed offensive to creatives.

So much so, that the company's VP of Marketing, Tor Myhren, was dispatched to quell the heated reaction, confessing to Ad Age that the company “Missed the mark with this video, and we’re sorry.”

Apple isn't exactly a brand you'd associate with making apologies all too often, Steve Jobs' "Just avoid holding it in that way" comment regarding reception issues with 2010s iPhone 4 being an infamous example of its reluctance to bend the knee to complaints.

So, when the company was quick to bust out the apologies, you'd be easily convinced that they were well and truly in the wrong about something. Although I watched the event as it happened, I decided to return to the vignette in question and share it here so we could all better understand the gravity of the situation.

Did you see it? Don't worry if you didn't catch it the first time around. Try again, if you have the time. How about now, anything? No?

Well, good. I'm glad it's not just me.

Apple did nothing wrong

Try as I might, I failed to spot any point of contention within Apple's "Crush!" ad, which shows a series of creative tools, assets, and instruments placed beneath an industrial compactor and compressed into the thin and sleek form of its latest iPad Pro, all to the tune of Sonny and Cher's All I Ever Need Is You.

Trust me, I tried. I'm more than happy to take a playful jab at Apple when the opportunity arises, they're pretty hardy and they can handle it. However, I don't see anything wrong here and I feel a little left out.

While everybody is busy clutching their pearls and swooning, I'm trapped down here in the basement office staring at a poster that reads "I want to believe."

Everywhere I look there's grumbling about the content of this video, even the replies to Tim Cook's post on X featuring the video are bustling with people upset with Apple's marketing.

Some people say it is the excessive destruction of expensive things, others say it's not about the destruction but the message behind it, and some claim Apple to be engaged in demonic inversion.

Even actor Hugh Grant popped up to voice his opinion, referring to Apple's ad as "The destruction of the human experience." Honestly, people in glass houses shouldn't throw stones, this is the man who starred in Mickey Blue Eyes, remember.

Has it been a slow news week, maybe? Why is everybody so up in arms about a smashed piano and a few burst tins of paint? If there's anything at all to complain about when it comes to Apple's new "Crush!" ad, it's that LG beat Apple to the punch by making practically the same video in 2008 for its KC910 Renoir phone.

However, people seem intent on clinging to the notion that Apple's advert is somehow "hostile" to creators.

Call me crazy, but I'm fairly certain the point of the ad is to showcase all of the things Apple has managed to 'cram' into its thinner and more powerful iPad Pro to empower creatives, no?

Now, should Apple's ad have showcased only the crushing of these instruments and supplies before holding the iPad Pro up in front of the camera and claiming "It's all you'll ever need, the rest of these things are trash!" you might have something to get slightly up in arms about.

But that's not what happened, and nor is it anywhere near close to a good faith interpretation reading of Apple's intentions.

Outlook

If crimes against musical instruments are the internet's latest cause to rally around, it's going to be a busy few months ahead as we systematically cancel just about every rock band, alive or dead, to have performed live over the last four decades.

Then again, I have seen the argument made that it's okay when this happens, or when things are destroyed in Hollywood movies because that's an act of creative expression. Seemingly, Apple's well-shot and visually interesting metaphor doesn't qualify for such exemptions, because... Reasons?

Maybe tech companies simply had their artistic license revoked one day while I was busy looking at my watch. However, I would've assumed Apple would remain, this is the company that is largely and routinely praised for its works-of-art product design and branding, after all.

To answer the calls that Steve Jobs wouldn't have done this, let me be frank, Steve Jobs would've done whatever Steve Jobs wanted to do. Apple's only mistake in this process was actually apologizing because if Steve Jobs was still around and you had any complaints to make about a short video clearly showing all the things you can 'fit' inside an iPad Pro, he'd have likely told you that you were interpreting it wrong.

More from Laptop Mag

• Apple M4: Everything you need to know
• The iPad Pro M4 has outgrown iPadOS, but is it ready for macOS?
• iPadOS: 5 reasons people hate it

This week, Apple revealed a redesigned and refreshed iPad Pro, its top-of-the-line tablet. It improved its record of listening to customer complaints by seemingly resolving a handful of shortcomings from the 2022 version of the Pro. It’s much lighter and much thinner, for one. There’s a centered selfie camera that adds premium upgrades like a “Tandem OLED” screen. It works with a new squeezable Apple Pencil Pro and MacBook-like Magic Keyboard. Its highlight, though, is the M4 chip inside it, marking the first time Apple has debuted its latest computer-grade silicon on a tablet.  

On paper, the iPad Pro’s M4 silicon is a workhorse. Apple says its ten-core CPU is 50 percent faster than the M2 found in the previous-gen iPad Pro (the Pro skipped the M3 chip altogether) while consuming only half the power. The 10-core GPU will lead to nearly four times faster performance in graphics-intensive activities like running professional-grade rendering apps. 

Letting AI loose

However, it’s the new iPad Pro’s AI chops that set it apart. Apple claims the M4’s Neural Processing Unit (NPU), or as Apple likes to call it, the “Neural Engine,” is more capable than any of its PC counterparts. 

To wit: Tim Millet, Apple’s vice president of Platform Architecture, declared the M4 chip an “outrageously powerful device for AI.”

While watching the events unfold on my laptop screen, I couldn’t help but notice how little time Apple spent showing off the new iPad Pro’s AI capabilities, barring the half-minute Final Cut demo, where it manages to isolate a person from their background — in 4K video, no less — with a tap of a button. That was cool. But that was it.

While Apple may claim the most powerful, portable computer for AI with the 2024 iPad Pro, it currently lacks killer AI software. 

However, this fallow period may be short-lived, even as the competition appears to be beating Apple in debuting AI software. (WWDC 2024, Apple's annual developer conference, is right around the corner in June, and may signal the dawn of Apple's AI software empire.)

When it comes to the competition moving faster than Apple, though, one just needs to look at Microsoft right now. Over the last year, the software giant has rolled out a drumbeat of AI updates for Windows 11, including a context-aware chatbot, generative AI options in its Office productivity suite, and soon, an AI Explorer that will potentially turn everything you do on your computer into a searchable memory. 

Microsoft’s upcoming hardware event will see it unveil a range of new Arm-powered Surface computers backed by the much-anticipated Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite, which theoretically could be better at running AI than Apple’s M4. The X Elite's NPU boasts up to 45 trillion operations per second (TOPS) compared to 38 TOPS for the M4. However, how each will leverage this performance could make all the difference.

Google, similarly, had more to show than tell when it introduced its “AI Phone,” the Pixel 8a, shortly after Apple’s Let Loose event. It comes loaded with AI-powered tools, from an Audio Magic Eraser, a way to automatically crop out distracting sounds from your videos, to Circle to Search, which lets you circle anything you see on the screen with your finger to look it up on the company’s Gemini chatbot to call assistive features. 

In comparison, Apple has made a curious choice to introduce the iPad Pro before building AI into iPadOS. However, that doesn’t detract from the iPad’s tremendous potential as an AI device. 

Its high-end multimodal capabilities for vision, touch, and mobile could be a better companion to the direction of AI development than a conventional Mac. Much of your iPad-based productivity will be AI-assisted, and the jobs traditionally associated with a laptop will migrate to the tablet.

Apple, an AI sleeping giant?

For Apple, the iPad Pro sets the stage for its long-awaited AI chapter. It has always been fashionably late to trends, and generative AI seems to be no exception. Behind the scenes Apple is reportedly investing millions of dollars per day researching the technology and gearing up to overhaul its hero products, including iOS 18 — considered internally one of the biggest updates to its mobile operating system — with AI front and center. 

“We believe in the transformative power and promise of AI, and we believe we have advantages that will differentiate us in this new era,” Tim Cook told investment analysts during an Apple earnings call last week.

Over the last few months, Apple has quietly laid down the stepping stones for its AI features. Like OpenAI and Google, Apple is preparing a multimodal large language model — the kind that powers ChatGPT — that can answer questions, help you understand the world by looking at it, or research a specific element on the screen you may have selected. 

What’s more interesting, however, are Apple’s OpenELM models, which are a fraction the size of a typical LLM and yet perform at nearly the same level so that they can run on devices and not consume ungodly volumes of space and power on your devices. In one instance, Apple experimented with a compressed version of an existing Google model, and though it was 15 times smaller, it only caused a 4 percent dip in quality. There’s also a chance Apple may team up with Google and integrate its Gemini AI tech into its software, at least until its in-house models are ready. 

These advancements will be ideal for Apple’s ambitions, which rumors suggest it wants to have all its AI features running on devices and offline to preserve user privacy. While it’s natural to assume Apple will debut these models first inside the Siri voice assistant, its publicly published research sheds light on several Google-like features, including a tool that lets people fix their photos with a simple prompt, refine AI-generated professional designs, and more. 

Scores of native apps on iPadOS, too, could immediately benefit from a dash of AI, such as auto-generated spreadsheets inside Numbers, code assistance on XCode, and upgrades to Spotlight search. 

For now, iPad Pro buyers will have to wait a few months to put their new device’s AI prowess to the test … and continue to live without a native calculator app.

MORE FROM LAPTOP MAG

• Where to preorder the new iPad Pro M4
• The iPad Pro M4 has outgrown iPadOS, but is it ready for macOS?
• MacBook Air M3 13-inch vs. iPad Pro M4: Is Apple's new tablet more powerful?

Apple held its "Let Loose" event on Tuesday, revealing two new iPads, the Apple Pencil Pro, and an all-new Magic Keyboard. Information about M4 chips, AI capabilities, and tandem OLED panels flew thick and fast, but, as with any major tech event, certain details get lost in the weeds. 

Unless you were paying close attention, you may have missed the asterisks tossed over every other statement made at Apple's iPad event. In doing so, you may have missed important information that could make or break a purchase.

In the case of the iPad Pro M4, certain facts about available models, such as hidden configuration options or the backward compatibility of certain accessories, aren't entirely common knowledge.

So, without further ado, here's what Apple didn't tell you about the new iPad Pro M4.

What Apple didn't tell you about iPad Pro M4

4. Storage options make all the difference for iPad Pro

Apple's iPad Pro models will vary significantly depending on which storage option you choose. If you want peak performance, then you'll need to aim to outfit your iPad Pro M4 with 16GB of RAM. However, to do this, you have to opt for the 1TB or 2TB storage configurations. Otherwise, you'll be stuck with 8GB, which isn't a terrible offering, but it will affect your ability to take full advantage of the M4's potential.

The same 1TB/2TB models also feature an M4 chip with a 10-core CPU, versus the 256GB/512GB options, which adopt a 9-core version. This means that selecting storage space is about more than just how many apps you can install at once. With a higher core CPU and greater RAM, you're getting a stronger iPad Pro M4.

This isn't reflected very clearly on the iPad Pro store page, as when deciding storage, it simply lists the space options without explaining what changes between configurations. However, you can see this clear as day on the iPad compare page in the "Chip" section.

3. Nano-texture glass isn't available on lower-storage (cheaper) devices

Nano-texture glass is also limited to 1TB and 2TB iPad Pro models, which is at least reflected clearly in the section where users can decide between it and standard glass.

 Apple's disclaimer claims both are "Engineered for extremely low reflectivity." 

However, nano-texture glass is specifically designed for "High-end, color-managed workflows" or "Viewing in the most demanding ambient light environments."

Essentially, the nano-texture glass is for a select group of users who need a pinpoint-precise level of color accuracy when using their iPads in the brightest rooms. 

The average user will not need to spend an additional $100 for nano-texture glass. Apple also warns that using only the polishing cloth that comes with the product is required so that it might be a bit too high-maintenance for some.

2. The Pencil Pro only works on the new iPad and old Apple Pencils don't work with the new iPads

The Apple Pencil Pro is also not backward compatible with older iPad models, as shown in the compatibility section of the Apple Pencil Pro store page. This means that previous generations of Apple Pencil do not work with the new iPad.

If you want the new iPad and plan to use the Apple Pencil, you'll have no choice but to buy the new Pencil Pro alongside it — even if you have older Apple Pencil products.

On the other hand, you'll have to purchase a new iPad if you want the Apple Pencil Pro. The same applies to the new Magic Keyboard, which is only compatible with the iPad Pro M4.

The iPad Pro M4 also lacks a 10-megapixel ultra-wide camera lens compared to the 6th Generation iPad Pro. This likely won't be a deal breaker for most, but it's important to note. Compared to the previous iPad Pro of 2022, the newer model also loses mmWave compatibility, which can allow for greater mobile data speeds in urban areas.

The real cost of the iPad Pro M4

1. The cost goes up quickly

The lack of compatibility with the new Magic Keyboard and Pencil Pro paints an unfortunate picture for those who already own older versions of both yet want the new iPad Pro: You'll have to pay far more than its starting price of $999 for the 11-inch model or $1,299 for the 13-inch model. 

Even if you're frugal and opt for the 256GB model, the $299 Magic Keyboard ($349 for 13-inch) and $129 Apple Pencil Pro mean you'll spend at least $1,429 for the 11-inch or $1,779 for the 13-inch model.

When you factor in that 256GB and 512GB models are built with less RAM and have fewer cores in their chips, you'll have to spend even more to get the most power out of your new iPad Pro M4. 

Now, we're at $2,329 for the 11-inch model and $2,679 for the 13-inch model. While not everyone will need to spend this much money just for additional performance, it's good to remember how steep things could get when factoring in lesser-known details about the iPad Pro M4. 

More from Laptop Mag

• The iPad Pro M4 has outgrown iPadOS, but is it ready for macOS?
• Did Apple forget about the iPad Mini?
• iPad Pro M4 vs. iPad Air 6: Which new iPad will be right for you?

Yesterday, Apple announced it's new line of iPads for 2024 — including an M2-powered iPad Air and its new iPad Pro housing the latest M4 chipset. While the former was presented in much the same way you'd expect any tablet to be marketed, the iPad Pro was given it's biggest backing to date by Apple as a viable laptop replacement.

Thanks to the power of the M4 Apple silicon chip and its second-generation 3-nanometer process, the new iPad Pro offer a 10-core CPU that's fifty percent faster than that of the M2. Better still, the M4 offers a 10-core GPU capable of hardware-accelerated mesh shading and ray tracing, four times faster than its M2 counterpart.

This is a very impressive slice of hardware no matter which way you look at it, and it's no wonder people are agreeing with Apple's laptop alternative angle. However, when I see the iPad Pro with its M4 chipset, I think only one thing: What a waste.

All that power, performance, and potential trapped inside the confines of iPadOS.

iPad Pro M4: The case for macOS on the move

The idea of macOS heading to iPad Pro isn't a new one. In fact, there's almost a seasonal flare up of people making the case for macOS on the move whenever a new iPad Pro is announced.

Far from attempting to cash in on this trend, I'm actually genuinely posing the question of whether or not it's time for Apple to pull the trigger on this one. You want to pose the iPad Pro as a potential laptop replacement? Well then pull the trigger on the one thing holding it back: the lack of a laptop-worthy OS.

I've no real qualms with iPadOS, it's good enough as a platform for tablets, and it works without issue for the vast majority of tablet-related tasks. However, begin talking about an iPadOS-based device being a viable laptop replacement and I'm likely to start spinning in my grave, which is impressive because I'm clearly not in it yet.

There's a word for a laptops running on something like iPadOS: Chromebooks — and nobody, aside from Laptop Mag Senior Staff Writer Mark Anthony Ramirez, gets excited about a Chromebook.

If the iPad Pro is to be a viable candidate to replace your laptop, it needs to offer everything your laptop can, including macOS. Why pack this device with cutting-edge tech like the M4 chip, if you're unwilling to give it access to cutting-edge software capable of taking full advantage of it?

Everything about the iPad Pro now screams "Treat me like a laptop," from the new Magic Keyboard's closer emulation to the deck of a MacBook Pro to the landscape orientation of the Pro's front camera.

Everything apart from its operating system, which is still primarily designed to cater to wider tablet use — also known as, watching YouTube videos and playing freemium App Store games. It's just not enough.

iPad Pro M4: The case for iPadOS

Taking more than a reactionary glance at the issue, it's easy to see why that might not be the best idea after all. While iPadOS might be more restrictive in operation than macOS, at least it's operational.

Despite Apple's prowess when it comes to capacitive touchscreens, the MacBook continues to awkwardly look around the room whenever a 2-in-1 or touchscreen laptop wanders by, acting as if it wasn't aware devices like this have ever existed. There have been plenty of rumors, even some patents, but we've yet to see a touchscreen MacBook make it beyond these stages.

As such, macOS is one of the least-optimized operating systems for touch, and a lot of the software available for it is too. Sure, putting macOS on iPad Pro is possible, but if you absolutely require a mouse and keyboard at all times to fully interact with it, what's the point?

That's the beauty of iPadOS, it's an instant-on, dive in headfirst solution to entertainment and productivity that's so simple a baby could use it. In fact, babies do use it. Can you imagine a baby figuring out how to access YouTube on macOS Sonoma? They wouldn't stand a chance. Won't someone think of the children?!

Perhaps most importantly, blurring the lines too heavily by introducing macOS to iPad Pro risks cannibalizing Apple's MacBook line. How would a device like the MacBook Air hold up against a thinner, lighter, equally as viable option that also works with touch and Apple Pencil? I doubt Apple are willing to find out.

Outlook

Ultimately, it doesn't really matter if the iPad Pro is ready for macOS or not. As macOS isn't ready for the iPad Pro. It's a fun day dream, but it would likely result in a user experience akin to trying your best to cram a square peg through a round hole. 

It'd require a near total overhaul of Apple's operating system, something it's unlikely to want to do right now with so much of its focus being on integrating AI within the platform.

Until then, it's Stage Manager for most of those seeking a laptop-like experience on iPad. A feature that's useful up to a point, but sorely lacking when it comes to truly emulating the desktop experience.

Perhaps a middle-ground is a macOS lite. A more fleshed out Stage Manager replacement for iPad Pro models within iPadOS. Once again, this isn't a new idea, but it is another that hasn't yet seen the light of day.

Some small slice of macOS on iPad could prove to be a valuable staging platform for Apple to entice more developers into accommodating touch support and functions within their software, and help pave the way for a future macOS on iPad release — or, dare we say it, a touchscreen MacBook Pro.

More from Laptop Mag

• Is the new iPad Pro M4 good enough to replace your laptop?
• iPad Pro M4 vs. iPad Air 6: Which new iPad will be right for you?
• iPadOS 18 rumors: Siri and AI, rumored features, and release date speculation

On Tuesday, Apple announced a slew of incredible new products for its iPad line-up, including the iPad Pro M4, iPad Air M2, and a redesigned Apple Pencil Pro. 

A common question about the Apple Pencil is whether it's worth buying. A new feature for the Apple Pencil Pro could propel it beyond the world of artists and students into the mainstream. 

This exciting new feature is squeeze control, which unlocks a whole new level of functionality and makes the Pencil a surprising competitor for a conventional mouse. This upgrade could make the Apple Pencil Pro a must-have accessory.

I love my Apple Pencil and have been using it nearly every day for years now, so I was ecstatic to see the new tech Apple baked into this upgraded Pencil. 

Whether you're trying to decide which accessories to add to your iPad Pro M4 or you currently have an iPad and want to upgrade your Pencil, you don't want to miss out on the Apple Pencil Pro and its revolutionary squeeze controls. 

The Apple Pencil Pro introduces squeeze controls, haptics, rolling, and hover

Apple gave the Apple Pencil a makeover, decking it out with new features, including squeeze controls, haptic feedback, barrel roll sensitivity, double tap controls, and hovering. These upgrades make the Apple Pencil Pro vastly more capable than the second-generation Pencil or the USB-C Pencil. The Pro might look just like the second-gen Apple Pencil, but the new tech inside is cutting-edge. 

Most of the upgrades in the Apple Pencil Pro are in the lower end of the barrel, so you can now use a range of new controls with just your thumb and index finger. Barrel roll sensitivity is mainly for creative applications that feature tasks like changing brush sizes. It's effectively a more advanced version of the existing pressure-sensitive tip on the second-generation Apple Pencil. 

Hovering is a smaller, although useful, addition that allows you to use certain functions and controls while hovering the tip of the Apple Pencil Pro over your iPad's display. 

Apple mainly demoed this for hovering tasks, but there are all kinds of ways you could potentially use it. I could see developers using hover a bit like a mouse cursor for precision control without the Magic Keyboard. 

Apple also brought support for "Find My" to the Apple Pencil Pro. While this isn't as groundbreaking as the new control setup in the Pencil's barrel, it is very useful (speaking as someone who has misplaced their Apple Pencil more than once). 

Squeeze controls

Squeeze control is the most revolutionary upgrade to the Apple Pencil. The pressure-sensitive barrel significantly expands the control and navigation capabilities of the Pencil, and not just in art apps. Squeeze controls make in-app navigation seamless, convenient, and intuitive. There are countless ways developers can use this new feature to give iPad users precise control capabilities in the convenient form factor of the Pencil. 

For example, the iPad is great for 3D modeling and design, especially with the new M4 chip in the iPad Pro. A designer walking around an R&D lab or an architect touring a construction site could reference design files and take notes on their iPad while using the Apple Pencil Pro to not only write, but change tools, jump between apps, and navigate through menus using squeeze control. 

The ability to utilize virtually all of the features of an app through one tool makes the iPad far easier to use with one hand (while holding it with the other on the go). If you haven't used an iPad before, that might seem like a little thing. However, it's hard to understate what a big quality-of-life upgrade this is. It allows the iPad to be even better at one of its most distinct use cases: flexible, modular mobile computing. 

It's far easier to use a tablet while standing, walking, and moving around compared to a laptop (as anyone who has tried typing with one hand knows). However, we all write with one hand all the time. So, the Apple Pencil form factor makes it the perfect mouse replacement for mobile computing, unlocking precise controls for the iPad without the need for the Magic Keyboard. 

Squeeze control is useful for more than artists and graphic designers. In Tuesday's presentation, Apple made it clear that third-party app developers are welcome to create squeeze controls for their apps. 

That means we could see squeeze shortcuts and menus pop up in everything from educational apps to web browsers to productivity programs like Microsoft or Adobe apps. 

We'll have to wait and see how developers decide to use squeeze controls in their products, but the door is open for a whole new range of features. 

I would love to see Apple introduce local shortcuts for the Apple Pencil Pro, as well, allowing users to create their own custom squeeze controls for navigating around iPadOS with the Pencil. However, that type of feature is more likely to be unveiled in iPadOS 18 at Apple's Worldwide Developer Conference next month. 

How to upgrade to the Apple Pencil Pro

Apple is keeping the price at $129 for the Apple Pencil Pro

The Apple Pencil Pro bakes a ton of new features into a familiar sleek white chassis—with a familiar price. It is replacing the second-generation Apple Pencils, so if you're upgrading from a second-generation Apple Pencil or the USB-C model, you can keep it as a spare.

Apple is keeping the price at $129, which makes the Apple Pencil Pro a steal. 

If you want to add it to your iPad setup, you can pre-order the Apple Pencil Pro today and it will ship out by May 15, when it officially becomes available. 

Unfortunately, Apple doesn't have a trade-in program for Pencils. So, if you're upgrading from a second-generation Apple Pencil or the USB-C model, you can keep it as a spare or you'll have to sell it on a third-party resale marketplace like eBay or Back Market. 

As someone holding out on upgrading my old iPad setup from 2020, the Apple Pencil Pro might finally get me to make the switch. I can't wait to see how app developers utilize the new squeeze controls. We're sure to hear more at WWDC 2024, which kicks off on June 10, so stay tuned for more details, info, and insights on the latest updates from Apple. 

More from Laptop Mag

• iPad Pro M4 vs. iPad Air 6: Which new iPad will be right for you?
• Where to preorder the new iPad Air M2
• Is the new iPad Pro M4 good enough to replace your laptop?

Apple announced the 2024 iPad Pro M4 during its "Let Loose" livestream event on Tuesday. And it didn't waste any time: iPad Pro preorders are now open for early adopters of Apple's latest premium pro-level tablet.  The 2024 iPad Pro is available in two size options — the 11-inch 2024 iPad Pro with Ultra Retina XDR OLED display starting from $999 and the 13-inch 2024 iPad Pro with Ultra Retina XDR OLED from $1,299. Both tablets include Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + Cellular options with storage capacities ranging from 256GB to 2TB.  

One of the best preorder deals so far at Amazon takes $50 off the 11-inch iPad Pro starting from $999. Meanwhile, My Best Buy Plus members save $50 on both 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro M4 preorders. Plus save up to $600 when you trade in a similar device. My Best Buy Plus members get an extra 10% more trade-in value. This is one of the best iPad deals you can get if you don't mind parting with your old tablet.

If you're an AT&T customer, save $100 on the iPad Pro M4 when you open a new line. Your rebate will show up on your monthly billing statement as a credit throughout your 36-month contract. Or save up to $180 on the iPad Pro M4 at Verizon when you trade in an eligible device. 

Apple's 2024 iPad Pro is the thinnest ever and, for the first time, features a state-of-the-art display called Tandem OLED, which delivers 1000 nits of full-screen brightness and up to 1,600 nits of peak brightness.  

Debuting Apple's blazing-fast new 9-core M4 chip, the 2024 iPad Pro is up to 50% faster than the older model M2 and uses just half the power. In terms of GPU performance, it’s 4X times faster, which means games and other graphics-intensive tasks run smoother than ever. 

"The neural engine makes M4 an outrageously powerful chip for AI," said Tim Millet, Apple's Vice President of Platform Architecture, adding it can power the isolation of a moving subject from its background in 4K video.

Want to be among the first to get your hands on Apple's most powerful iPad Pro yet? You can preorder the iPad Pro M4 now at Apple.com and save up to $580 with an eligible device trade-in. Preorders are expected to ship to arrive by May 15, the iPad Pro's release date.

Preorder the iPad Pro M4

• 11" Apple iPad Pro M4: $999 $949 @ Amazon
• 13" Apple iPad Pro M4: from $1,299 @ Amazon
• 11" Apple iPad Pro M4: $999 $949 @ Best Buy w/ membership
• 13" Apple iPad Pro M4: $1,299 $1,249 @ Best Buy w/ membership
• 11" Apple iPad Pro M4: from $999 @ Apple up to $580 off w/ trade-in
• 13" Apple iPad Pro M4: from $1,299 @ Apple up to $580 off w/ trade-in
• 11" Apple iPad Pro M4 (2024): $100 off A&T w/ new line
• 13" Apple iPad Pro M4 (2024): $100 off A&T w/ new line
• iPad Pro M4 (2024): up to $180 off @ Verizon w/ trade-in

Amazon

Best Buy

Apple

AT&T

Verizon

On Tuesday, Apple announced the long-awaited OLED iPad Pro featuring the new M4 chip at its "Let Loose" virtual event. This iPad Pro is groundbreaking in a few ways, making it a serious rival to laptops like no tablet before. But can it fully replace your MacBook?

Apple has long been marketing the iPad Pro as a laptop replacement, particularly with the help of the Magic Keyboard accessory, which also got a stunning refresh today. However, the iPad has struggled to find its way in the shadow of the MacBook. That might finally be changing now. 

"This is the biggest day for iPad since its introduction," said Apple CEO Tim Cook at the outset of the event.

I have switched between using my iPad and my laptop as my primary mobile computing device, and I can confidently say that the new iPad Pro and the updated accessories Apple unveiled on Tuesday will genuinely transform the iPad experience. The question is, are these updates transformative enough for the iPad to truly replace your laptop? Who is the new iPad line-up for? 

Here's how the M4 OLED iPad Pro and Apple's redesigned accessories compare to a traditional laptop or MacBook. 

M4 OLED iPad Pro price and specs

Apple outdid itself with the iPad Pro M4. It's the thinnest Apple product ever made, even thinner than the iPod Nano. Thanks to the new M4 chip, which features a new display engine, a neural engine for AI tasks, four times faster rendering than the M2 chip, and a 10-core GPU with support for ray tracing, it's also currently more powerful than the MacBook Pro. 

The real star of the show on the M4 iPad Pro is the cutting-edge Tandem OLED display. Not only did Apple finally bring OLED to the iPad Pro, they created a new type of OLED display that uses two OLED panels on top of one another. It boasts 1,000 nits of brightness and 1,600 nits of peak brightness in HDR. Plus, a nano-texture glass display is now an option to minimize glare even more (although this option is only available on models with 1TB or 2TB of storage). 

There's a lot of room for customization on the iPad Pro now, especially when accessories are added. 

So, for comparison, let's say you're trying to decide between the 13-inch M4 iPad Pro and the M3 MacBook Pro, which is Laptop Mag's best overall laptop as of this writing.

The 13-inch M4 iPad Pro starts at $1,299, while the M3 MacBook Pro starts at $1,599. If you want the iPad Pro to be a proper laptop replacement, you'll need the new Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro, which adds $349 to your M4 iPad Pro setup, bringing the total to $1,648. That's $49 more than the M3 MacBook Pro.

However, the M3 MacBook Pro comes with 512GB of storage for that price, while the M4 iPad Pro only includes 256GB of storage. Upgrading to 512GB increases the cost by an additional $200, bringing the total for the M4 iPad Pro to a whopping $1,848, $249 more than the base 14-inch M3 MacBook Pro.

The bottom line on the price is that the new 13-inch iPad Pro revealed today is still more expensive than the MacBook Pro. Is it worth the higher price? That depends in part on use cases, but value is also essential.

Flexibility: The iPad Pro's greatest strength

Flexibility is the iPad's most significant advantage over the MacBook or any other laptop, even the best 2-in-1 laptops. A typical laptop has one form factor: A screen with a keyboard deck and touchpad. You might be able to flip the screen around to use it like a tablet or even detach it, but that main form factor is the most functional way to use a laptop and often the only way. 

In contrast, the iPad is modular. You can attach it to the Magic Keyboard like a laptop, use it as a tablet, or pick up the newly redesigned Apple Pencil to write notes or draw. The new squeeze controls on the Apple Pencil even allow it to function like a mouse. Even though you can do some of those things on some laptops, the iPad's performance across different modes is more seamless and balanced. 

The M4 chip in the new iPad Pro also means you don't have to sacrifice computing power to get that additional flexibility. The iPad is capable of effectively everything a laptop can now (although it's still somewhat limited by software compatibility like any other Apple device). 

The bottom line on flexibility: The iPad Pro handily wins the flexibility category thanks to its modular design. 

Connectivity: Still a struggle for the iPad

Unfortunately, connectivity continues to be an issue on the iPad. On a MacBook, you get at least two USB-C Thunderbolt ports, an HDMI slot, and an SDXC card slot. The new iPad Pro M4 is incredibly thin, which is fantastic for portability. 

However, one of the slim chassis's few drawbacks is that it is simply not large enough for the same ports as the MacBook. 

For instance, there's just no way to squeeze an HDMI port into the iPad. It has one main USB-C Thunderbolt port, and the Magic Keyboard adds one more, although that port is specifically for charging. 

Of course, you can always buy one of the best USB Type-C hubs to give your iPad more ports, so it's not a deal breaker for most people. 

The bottom line on connectivity: If you don't have a hub for your iPad Pro, the MacBook wins on connectivity. 

Practicality: A narrow gap between iPads and laptops

The M4 iPad Pro is undoubtedly an incredibly powerful tablet, but is it practical for replacing your MacBook or laptop for everyday tasks? That depends. 

When people ask me how I get by using my iPad instead of a laptop, I often tell them the iPad is better at what I want to do than a laptop. 

In college, that meant taking notes and web browsing. In my everyday life now, I use the Notes app on my iPad as a whiteboard for brainstorming. I edit photos I take on my iPhone on the iPad's larger screen. I use the iPad to watch movies and even play games when I'm on the move. The iPad is particularly convenient when traveling because of its flexibility and light weight. 

An iPad is more practical than a laptop for my personal use cases. That might not be the case for everyone. Of course, practicality depends partly on software, particularly the pro-level apps MacBook Pro and iPad Pro users need. 

The M4 chip allows developers to improve their iPad apps significantly. Final Cut Pro is already getting some serious upgrades on the iPad, including live multi-cam, enabling you to connect up to 4 other cameras through the new Final Cut Camera app to view footage live in Final Cut Pro on the iPad. You can now also edit directly from an external drive, dramatically improving the convenience of editing on an iPad compared to a Mac. 

More changes and new features like this will hopefully improve iPad apps to make them as intuitive and capable as Mac apps. Plus, it's important to remember that the iPad will receive a significant software update in June during WWDC 2024. 

iPadOS 18 is expected to bring new AI features to the iPad and hopefully improve navigation, file management, and other everyday tasks. 

The gap between the iPad Pro and the MacBook regarding ergonomics is also closing. We predicted Apple would cut down the size of the gap along the top edge of the Magic Keyboard to add more room for a larger touchpad, and the company did just that. The Magic Keyboard also has a function row and an aluminum palm rest, so it's like a MacBook keyboard. 

All those factors mean that whether or not an iPad Pro is a practical laptop replacement comes down to personal use. You can effectively do all of the same things on an iPad now that you can on a MacBook. There may still be exceptions, like specific apps only available on MacOS. However, the M4 iPad Pro is just as capable as the M3 MacBook Pro. 

The bottom line on practicality: It's a draw. It could be the iPad Pro or the M3 MacBook Pro, depending on your use cases.

Value for your money: Is modularity worth it?

When considering trading out your MacBook for an iPad, the pros and cons probably fall into two categories: Features and price. The iPad Pro is more expensive for a complete laptop replacement package than the M3 MacBook Pro. However, it also has many features that the MacBook doesn't, raising the question: Is the M4 iPad Pro better value than the M3 MacBook Pro?

I would argue the answer is "yes" — for some people. The M4 iPad Pro has a faster processor, a superior display, a modular design, rear cameras, and support for the Apple Pencil, which unlocks use cases out of reach for the MacBook. 

Of course, the Apple Pencil Pro ($129) and the Magic Keyboard ($299 and $349, depending on size) are pricey accessories. But each offers flexibility you won't get on a laptop. At the same time, the M4 chip allows the iPad Pro to deliver performance similar to that of the MacBook Pro. 

So, the M4 iPad Pro can be excellent value for the money for specific users. For example, if you currently use an iPad and a MacBook, you can trade in both and do everything on one device with the M4 iPad Pro. Likewise, if you currently have a MacBook or another laptop and often wish to use a touchscreen or write something out by hand, the flexibility of the M4 iPad Pro could be a worthwhile upgrade. 

On the other hand, there are still plenty of apps that aren't available for the iPad. For instance, gaming is still better on the Macbook Pro unless you mainly play mobile games. So, look at the apps you use most often on your Macbook or laptop and check the App Store for each one to see if there's an iPad version of that app or a similar app you could replace it with. If most of your top apps aren't available on the iPad, then a MacBook will still be a better value for you. 

The bottom line on value: A MacBook is better for people who need to use various apps.

Bottom line: Can the M4 iPad Pro replace your laptop?

Can the M4 iPad Pro replace your M3 MacBook Pro or laptop? Yes, but it depends. The addition of the M4 chip is a game changer for the iPad since it now has the processing power to compete with the capabilities of the MacBook. The new Apple Pencil Pro and redesigned Magic Keyboard also improve the ergonomics, practicality, and capabilities of the iPad Pro. 

Unfortunately, the 13-inch M4 iPad Pro with the Magic Keyboard is still at least $249 more than the 14-inch M3 Macbook Pro for similar specs. The iPad Pro includes a more powerful processor and the flexibility of a modular design, though, so that extra $249 could be worth it for specific users. 

The iPad Pro isn't a laptop but isn't designed to be one. It's intended to be a completely different type of mobile computing device, one that's just as powerful as a laptop but offers a level of flexibility laptops don't have. 

That flexibility can be a game changer for people who use a tablet and a laptop, as well as artists, graphic designers, students, and professionals in various fields. If the flexibility of a modular mobile computing device sounds enticing, then the M4 iPad Pro is the device for you. 

The bottom line on the iPad Pro replacing your M3 MacBook: Yes, but not for everybody — not yet, anyway.

More from Laptop Mag

• The new Apple Magic Keyboard: Everything you need to know
• iPad Pro M4 vs. iPad Air 6: Which new iPad will be right for you?
• iPadOS 18 rumors: Siri and AI, rumored features, release date speculation, and more

Welcome to Laptop Mag and our live blog coverage of today's Apple 'Let Loose' event!

Today's event might be over, but we'll be reporting to you throughout the day with expanded coverage on everything we know so far about the new iPad Air, iPad Pro, Magic Keyboard, and Apple Pencil Pro.

So stick around, bookmark this page, and follow Laptop Mag on X, Facebook, and Flipboard for everything Apple and iPad today!

Apple 'Let Loose' event: Follow-up coverage

• iPad Pro M4 vs. iPad Air 6: Which new iPad will be right for you?
• Is the new iPad Pro M4 good enough to replace your laptop?
• iPad Air 6 vs. Air 5: Should you upgrade?
• The new Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro: Everything you need to know

Apple 'Let Loose' event: Everything announced

• The new iPad Air features an M2 chipset for much improved performance and efficiency. The Air now includes a new model measuring 13-inches in size, and retains the 11-inch option of old.
  
  The iPad Air M2 will be available from May 15 starting at $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch model. Check out where to pre-order the new iPad Air M2.
   
• Available in 11-inch and 13-inch models with up to 2TB of storage and featuring the latest M4 chipset and a new OLED display, the iPad Pro is the most powerful of Apple's tablets to date.
  
  The iPad Pro M4 will be available from May 15 starting at $999 for the 11-inch model and $1,299 for the 13-inch model. Check out where to pre-order the new iPad Pro.
   
• The Apple Pencil Pro was unveiled in full, touting a new gyroscope-powered Barrel Roll feature for refined precision and control over the Hover feature found in M2 iPad Pro models. A new Squeeze feature offers a short cut hot bar to access tools rapidly, and a haptic motor delivers accurate feedback to actions performed.
  
  The Apple Pencil Pro is available to pre-order now from the Apple homepage and will be available from May 15 for $129.
   
• Apple's Magic Keyboard revamp was revealed, featuring an aluminum wrist rest, larger trackpad and a new function row for the back-lit keyboard giving quick access to screen dimming and media controls.
  
  The Apple Magic Keyboard is available to pre-order now from the Apple homepage and will be available from May 15 for $299 for the 11-inch model and $349 for the 13-inch model.

Welcome to Laptop Mag, and our live blog coverage of today's Apple 'Let Loose' event! We're just a few hours away from some major iPad reveals. We've already had some strong reports about what to expect when the tape rolls on today's event, so let's go over what we know so far while we wait for things to kick off!

Will Apple debut the M4 chip today?

It seems strange for Apple to debut its latest chip during an iPad-focused event, especially with the M3-touting 13-inch MacBook Air and 15-inch MacBook Air having just released earlier this year.

However, according to Bloomberg, the new iPad Pro models could skip the M3 chip entirely and go straight to Apple's next-gen M4 platform.

• Read about it here: iPad Pro might launch with AI-powered M4 — should you wait?

When will the M4 come to MacBook?

If today does mark the debut of the M4 chip, everyone will want to know when they can expect Apple's latest processor to feature in MacBook Pro and MacBook Air models. Well, lucky you, that's something we may already know.

Early reports suggest that the first MacBooks to feature the M4 chip will launch between October and November later this year. The first of Apple's laptops to feature this chipset is said to be the 14-inch MacBook Pro, which will launch alongside a 24-inch iMac also featuring the same M4 chip.

It's said that 16-inch MacBook Pro models will follow with M4 Pro and M4 Max configurations, with an M4/M4 Pro Mac mini in tow.

• Read about it here: M4 MacBooks: A timeline of when to expect Apple's next-gen laptops

What else do we know about the M4 chip?

Each new generation of Apple's M-series chips brings sweeping improvements to performance and efficiency. But can we bank on the M4 chipset to do the same?

Much of what we know so far about the M4 is rumor and speculation. However, should these prove accurate, the M4 will be the first of Apple's chips to be developed using a 2-nanometer process.

This indicates the transistor density inside the chip, with the lower the number the better. Apple's current-gen M3 chip are based on a 3-nanometer process, meaning the leap to M4 could see considerable gains across the board for MacBooks — and the latest iPad Pro if word is to be believed.

• Read about it here: Apple M4 chip rumors: Everything you need to know

M4 iPad Pro: Is it likely?

Speculation is all well and good, and often quite fun, but how likely are we to see an iPad Pro featuring an M4 chip be announced today?

That's a tough one! We'd typically expect Apple to debut its chips on MacBook first, giving them the best chance to shine when it comes to uncapped performance. However, this generation of iPad could be Apple's biggest push to date to present the iPad Pro as a viable laptop replacement.

That being said, it was only last month that we caught wind that the M4 chip was "nearing production," making its appearance in the iPad Pro seem unlikely — unless Apple plan to reveal its tablet today, but launch it later in the year to coincide with the M4 MacBook Pro.

• Read about it here: Apple’s M4 chip reportedly ‘nearing production’

What to expect from a new iPad Pro

If Apple's iPad Pro doesn't feature the M4 chip, there's still plenty to look forward to. The new iPad Pro should at the very least feature Apple's current-gen M3 chip, meaning there'll still be considerable upgrades to expect when it comes to overall performance and efficiency, resulting in a longer-lasting and more powerful tablet.

iPad Pro 2024: What's changing?

There's nothing wrong with the iPad Pro's current display, it's literally called liquid retina because it's so good it melts eyeballs. However, that doesn't mean we will say no to the rumored OLED panel heading our way with today's announcement.

A new OLED panel for the iPad Pro would mean better color accuracy and a more vibrant, crisper image. It also makes way for thinner display panels allowing for the potential of trimmer chassis, slimmer bezels, or more internal room to include improved layouts for thermal management or higher storage capacities.

Speaking of, today's iPad Pro announcement could see a configuration available with up to 2TB of storage. A whopping amount of space to make use of and another clear indication of Apple's intent to push the iPad Pro as a more worthy MacBook alternative.

• Read about it here: 2024 iPad line-up rumors

What about the iPad Air 6?

While the iPad Pro has incredible potential, let's not forget about the prospect of a new iPad Air now featuring the mighty M2 chipset.

The sixth-generation iPad Air is expected to arrive in two sizes: the typical 10.9-inch model, and a new iPad Pro-like sizing of 12.9 inches. This expanded panel will be a treat for those envious of the Pro model's larger display, though unable to meet its premium pricing.

The M2 chip has been a solid performer for the iPad Pro previously, and we'd expect a similar level of performance to now feature for the iPad Air. This could also mean that Apple Pencil features like Hover make their way to the smaller tablet, too!

This round of iPad refreshes could do wonders for both Air and Pro lines, but could make choosing between them slightly more interesting.

• Read about it here: iPad Pro M4 vs. iPad Air 6: Which new iPad will be right for you?

The real magic is the accessories we'll gain along the way

One of the major things preventing many iPad users from adopting it as a laptop replacement is its primarily touch interface. Even though the iPad has the Magic Keyboard to fall back on, and the option to use wireless keyboards over Bluetooth, there's been a decided lack of a laptop-like feel to things.

However, that could be set to change with Apple's new Magic Keyboard revamp.

The new Magic Keyboard, or potentially the Magic Keyboard Pro, hopes to breathe new life into the iPad as a laptop debate by bringing with it a deck more closely aligned to the MacBook experience. 

This new deck features a much larger trackpad and a more sturdy and durable aluminum design that will go above and beyond to address the complaints of the current Magic Keyboard's flimsier offerings.

• Read about it here: The new Apple Magic Keyboard: Everything you need to know

Pencil us in

If you'd have told me that I'd be getting excited about a pencil in 2024, I'd have assumed you'd just broken free from your straight jacket and were part way through making a dash to cross state lines.

However, surprisingly enough, the new Apple Pencil, or the Apple Pencil Pro as it might be called, is shaping up to be quite the accessory.

Apple are going all-in on touch controls this generation it seems, with the iPhone 16 rumored to feature capacitive buttons and the new Apple Pencil Pro set to feature a number of touch-sensitive inputs to streamline the writing and art experience.

• Read about it here: iPhone 16 rumors: release date speculation, design leaks, price outlook, and more

The Apple Pencil Pro: What's new?

You'd think it would be quite hard to innovate on the concept of a "pencil" but here we are. The new Apple Pencil Pro as it's being dubbed online is set to include a host of improvements that could dramatically improve its usability and functionality.

While much of what we know is once again rumor, I feel confident in my ability to predict that Apple's stylus will retain much of the same overall design as all pencils have since the mid-1500s. That aside, things are reportedly changing in some very noticeable ways.

Apple's stylus is rumored to feature interchangeable magnetic nibs that can be hot-swapped to suit various tasks. for example, a harder tip for note taking and writing, and a softer tip for digital art project.

• Read about it here: New Apple Pencil to 'shake' things up in a big way

Apple Pencil Pro: It's all about the touch

The biggest change heading to the Apple Pencil will potentially come in the form of new gesture-based touch controls.

A recent report indicated that the Apple Pencil Pro would feature a "squeeze" input that could detect compressive force as a user input.

Digging into things a little further, we uncovered some long filed Apple patents for the Apple Pencil that showcased a similar feature alongside several other touch-based methods that could also make it to the revised stylus.

These gestures include brushing your index finger along the top of the pencil to potentially interact with sliders like brush sizes, opacity settings, etc.

Also there's the returning tap and double tap options that could be used to switch tools or interact with elements while using Hover.

• Read about it here: New Apple Pencil to 'shake' things up in a big way

Squeeze your problems away

One proposed feature of the new "squeeze" gesture could be to enable the eraser, letting you quickly remove any unwanted aspects of your notes or drawings.

Of course, it's also entirely possible that any of these new inputs can be fully customized like the iPhone 15's action button, giving users total control over how their Apple Pencil functions across various apps.

• Read about it here: Apple just left a disappearing hint about the new Apple Pencil

Apple "Let Loose" iPad event: It's almost showtime

We're now less than 20 minutes away from today's showcase kicking off, you can either stick with us for ongoing coverage throughout the event or make sure to give our guide on how to watch the Apple "Let Loose" iPad event and catch the reveals as they happen.

The showcase begins!

"This is the biggest day for iPad since it's introduction"

Tim Cook is hinting at big things for today's announcements during his recap.

Tim Cook hails the iPad as a great tool for productivity and gaming.

"It's this incredible versatility that defines iPad"

iPad Air is up first, with Apple keen to showcase the portability and performance of its tablet.

The iPad Air will be available in two models, the regular 11-inch, and a new 13-inch model, offering 30% more space than the regular model.

Both models feature the M2 chipset, offering three times the performance.

The iPad Air for 2024 is looking to be a great improvement, with a solid performance boost from the power of the M2 chip.

Our first look at Apple's new iPad Pro showcases an impressively thin redesign.

"We're not only going to push the limits of what you can do on iPad, we're going to crush them" - John Ternus, Senior VP Hardware Engineering

Ultra Retina HDR promises the best visuals on an iPad yet with 1K to 1.6K of peak brightness through its tandem OLED process. Coated by nano-texture glass to reduce glare by scattering ambient light.

It's confirmed, the new iPad Pro will feature Apple's M4 chipset!

Apple claim that the M4 offers four times the performance of the M2 chip at half the power.

"The neural engine makes M4 an outrageously powerful chip for AI." - Tim Millet, VP Platform Architecture. Apple claim it can isolate a moving subject from its background in 4K video with ease. Impressive!

Apple are pushing the iPad as a profession and creative tool hard in this presentation, showcasing Final Cut Pro's capabilities on the M4 chip while also subtly pointing out the iPad Pro's Thunderbolt port!

Logic Pro 2 on iPad Pro M4 is showcased, further stressing the device's capabilities and powerful performance.

The iPad Pro's Adaptive True Tone flash, LiDAR scanner, and 12MP camera with Five-element lens, Smart HDR 4 and 4K ProRes video is a treat! It even allows for document scanning in low-lighting conditions. A game changer for those converting to the paperless age.

It's onto accessories now as we're introduced to the new Magic Keyboard and the Apple Pencil Pro.

"The incredible new Magic Keyboard makes the new iPad Pro more portable and convenient than ever." The deck is bigger, very reminiscent of the MacBook and with a sizable trackpad. 

Barrel Roll is a new Apple Pencil Pro feature made possible by an internal gyroscope to detect rotation and tilt. Allowing users to adjust the tilt and angle of brush strokes with ease. 

What a trio of hardware and accessories! The iPad Pro M4 will be available from next week starting from $999 for the 11-inch model, and from $1,299 for the 13-inch model.

The new Magic Keyboard will be available in 11-inch and 13-inch models for $299 and $349 respectively!

And the new Apple Pencil Pro will be available for $129! Not a bad price considering the wealth of new features heading to Apple's stylus.

The iPad Air will be available from next week starting at $599 for the 11-inch model and from $799 for the new 13-inch model.

To cap things off, the iPad 10th gen will now see a healthy price cut to just $349!

With Tim Cook's sign-off out of the way, he points us in the direction of this year's WWDC event for more news about the software changes heading to the new iPad Air and iPad Pro with iPadOS 18.

You can learn more about iPadOS 18 and everything we expect at WWDC 24 so far at our dedicated rumor hubs! Favorite these pages and check back with us for up to the date information as we get it!

• iPadOS 18 rumors: Siri and AI, rumored features, release date speculation, and more
• WWDC 2024 rumors: Possible dates, major iOS 18 updates, and more

It was a whirlwind experience, and I've no doubt missed a host of details in the mad dash to share what we've seen today. Thankfully we'll be offering follow-up coverage throughout the day to flesh out more of what to expect from Apple's latest iPads and accessories.

Be sure to follow Laptop Mag on X, Facebook, and Flipboard to catch these articles as they arrive!

For now, let's recap on what we've seen...

Apple iPad Air (6th Gen)

The sixth-generation Apple iPad Air offers the power of the M2 chip for three times the performance of previous A12 Bionic iPad Airs. This mighty processor is also 50% faster than the M1 iPad air that came before it, and offers incredible performance across gaming and apps.

This new processor helps power the Liquid Retina display which now comes in both 11-inch and 13-inch formats for the first time. This expanded screen size is great for deeper immersion in movies and games, and also top-notch for productivity, allowing you to fit more vital information on the screen at once.

The iPad Air also features a shifted 12MP front camera, now located on the landscape edge of the device for better FaceTime calls or selfies while holding the device horizontally and with a lone rear 12MP camera for regular photos.

The iPad Air M2 also offers up to 1TB of storage (with 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB configurations also available), an impressive trove of space to make use of for all your apps, photos, and files!

The iPad Air M2 is available for pre-order now from the Apple homepage and will be available from May 15 from $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch model.

Apple iPad Pro M4

Apple came out swinging when it came to its new iPad Pro. We were expecting something big from the way Apple spoke, but I'm still in shock that the M4 rumors turned out to be true!

This makes the iPad Pro of 2024 the most powerful tablet on the market, offering 4x faster pro rendering performance than the M2-equipped iPad Pro of old, and 1.5x the CPU performance to boot.

While some had concerns about the M3 not being enough of a generational increase in performance, the leap from M2 to M4 should not disappoint. The iPad Pro M4 bundles both a powerful NPU for advanced AI capabilities and an impressive GPU with hardware-accelerated ray tracing.

Senior VP of Hardware Engineering, John Ternus was not kidding when he said "We're not only going to push the limits of what you can do on iPad, we're going to crush them!"

This would almost be enough of a refresh for most, but Apple didn't stop there. Not only is the iPad Pro being powered by Apple's latest and greatest chipset, it's also touting an OLED display for the first time. Tandem OLED, in fact.

Two OLED panels combine to offer up to 1600 nits of peak brightness, while retaining all the vivid color and excellent saturation we've come to enjoy about Apple's Liquid Retina screens. This is Apple's Ultra Retina XDR display, with a 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio with True Tone and ProMotion for an adaptive 10-120Hz ultra-smooth refresh rate.

The iPad Pro M4 is available for pre-order now from the Apple homepage and will be available from May 15 from $999 for the 11-inch model and $1,299 for the 13-inch model.

Apple Magic Keyboard

On to something I was most looking forward to, and possibly most let down by. It's still a considerable upgrade over the current Magic Keyboard, but I was potentially hoping for a little bit more from Apple here.

The all-new Magic Keyboard is thinner and lighter than before, retaining the floating cantilever hinge of the original, and available in white or black. For the first time, the Magic Keyboard includes a function row with easy access to shortcuts for screen brightness and media controls.

It also now features an aluminum palm rest, not quite the entire aluminum MacBook deck emulation I was hoping for, but the new, larger trackpad is a welcome addition.

That's pretty much all Apple had to say on this accessory, and I was certainly hoping for more from it. Aesthetically, I can't complain. The all-new Magic Keyboard does look pretty great, it just doesn't seem quite as all-new as claimed to be.

I was hoping for something that would eventually measure up to Apple's ambitious pricing for the Magic Keyboard, but I'm not entirely sold on this being it.

The Apple Magic Keyboard is available to pre-order now from the Apple homepage and will be available from May 15 for $299 for the 11-inch model and $349 for the 13-inch model.

Apple Magic Pencil Pro

While the Magic Keyboard didn't impress me all that much, I can't say the same for the new Apple Pencil Pro, an accessory seemingly designed to give Apple the license to print money at will.

It feels like only hours ago when I was telling you all how difficult it must be to innovate on the pencil (it was only hours ago, after all), and yet somehow Apple has made it look easy with the Pencil Pro.

The staples are all here, a return of Apple Pencil Hover, tilt sensitivity, pressure sensitivity, pixel-perfect precision, and low latency responsiveness. However, the Pencil's newest features steal the show with the Squeeze detection offering a hot bar of sorts for rapid tool selection and haptic feedback giving subtle vibrations to indicate on-device snaps or selections.

Most impressive of all is Barrel roll, a gyroscope-enabled feature that accurately detects rotations for precise control over shaped brushes. This is an excellent feature when paired with Hover and promises to make the new Apple Pencil Pro the premiere stylus of choice for digital artists.

The Apple Pencil Pro is available to pre-order now from the Apple homepage and will be available from May 15 for $129 with free personalization.

Apple 'Let Loose' iPad event: What did we get wrong?

We had a lot of predictions going into this event, and it's easy to spot where you got things right. But where did our predictions go wrong, and are they something we can look forward to in the future?

Apple iPad Air (M2)

When it comes to the iPad Air, we didn't have many expectations. This was more of a simple refresh, and pretty much directly in line with our assumptions. We also caught wind of the 13-inch model early on, which was proven right today. What we didn't see coming was the height of its improved storage options, now offering up to 1TB of storage.

This is something we're more than happy to welcome to the iPad Air line, as there's never any harm to giving users more space to make use of. We'd expect the 2TB option to remain with the Pro line for now, but we'd love to see the iPad Air eventually adopt the new Ultra Retina XDR display. However, given the chance, we'd be more than happy for Apple to dive right in with its Micro-LED panels.

Apple iPad Pro (M4)

While we had heard the rumor that the iPad Pro would receive the M4 chip, I can't tell you that we were 100% convinced, regardless of how trusted the source of that information is.

However, while it seemed like an outside possibility, it remained a possibility, and it's one that's come to fruition. We also expected the iPad Pro to feature an OLED panel for the first time, and that has also been proven true. The same goes for the 2TB storage option and the switch to 11-inch and 13-inch models.

What can we hope for more of in the future? A continued push to keep the iPad Pro at a parallel with MacBook and retain its access to top of the line Apple silicon chips. That would be most welcomed.

Apple Magic Keyboard

The Magic Keyboard is maybe the single disappointment from today's show. While everything Apple had to show lines up with our information, I was personally hoping for a little more.

From early reports, I was hoping for something that was a little bit closer to a modular component for the iPad Pro that resulted in a much more familiar MacBook experience.

It's something I'd love to see from Apple eventually. A full emulation of the MacBook deck for iPad, speakers included. Maybe then I could justify the Magic Keyboard's mighty price tag. That would be the Magic Keyboard Pro I'd want to see anyway.

Apple Pencil Pro

While we went digging through Apple patents to try to get the jump on the Apple Pencil Pro, we weren't successful in predicting the Barrel Roll feature or support for Find My, which promises to ensure you never lose your iPad peripheral again.

Squeeze was a feature we saw coming, but we weren't entirely sure how it would be used. This pop-up menu control seems impressively intuitive and should make digital artists incredibly happy by noticeably speeding up workflows.

Could we see some of our predicted Pencil Pro features like swiping gestures come to future models? Potentially! Apple have the technology to put it into action, and with tap and double tap controls already in place, and a wider push towards capacitive controls, it's not out of the question.

Our coverage continues!

Apple's "Let Loose" event has drawn to a close, but our coverage continues! Check out the following Laptop Mag articles to dive further into today's announcements:

• iPad Pro M4 vs. iPad Air 6: Which new iPad will be right for you?
• Is the new iPad Pro M4 good enough to replace your laptop?
• iPad Air 6 vs. Air 5: Should you upgrade?
• The new Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro: Everything you need to know

The new iPad Pro could skip an M3 processor altogether and go straight to M4 according to a new leak from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

It was previously rumored that the MacBook would launch as the first product with M4 chips later in the year. But the new report could signal that the first step in Apple's shift towards AI is coming far sooner than expected.

This also contradicts previous leaks suggesting the next iPad Pro models—which will be unveiled at Apple's "Let Loose" on May 7—would feature the M3. But Gurman claims there's a "strong possibility" that this might no longer be the case. 

WWDC 2024 begins on June 10 and will unveil macOS 15, iOS 18, watchOS, and most importantly, iPadOS 18. Since the M4's neural engine is rumored to be expanding the possibilities of AI in Apple Silicone chips, and iPad Pro with M4 could be revealed on May 7, this timeline makes perfect sense as an opportunity for the company to provide a taste of the software that is set to make the most of its neural engine.

But should you care about Apple's AI plans with M4?

Should you care about M4's AI capabilities?

Why does it matter if the iPad Pro's potential M4 processor has a powerful neural engine with expanded AI capabilities? You're probably wondering "what will I use it for?" Beyond the basics like blurring backgrounds and noise reduction, that's not an easy question to answer right now.

Before you raise your pitchforks, this is a vital stepping stone in the quest for AI to prove itself. It's impossible to create software for something without the hardware that can perform it, and by implementing an M4 processor into the iPad Pro a generation earlier than expected, Apple could get a head start in the AI race.

For example, Windows Copilot didn't launch alongside Intel's Meteor Lake processors. And even now, it's currently rumored that Microsoft is working on a Windows 11 feature called AI Explorer. 

This would allow users to put their NPU (AI accelerator) to work to find web pages, documents, applications, photos, and videos they opened in the past. Users could ask Copilot to find a recipe they were looking at the other day or a song they can't remember the name of. Since all this data is stored locally and runs directly on the processor's NPU, it could act as a user's second memory.

Software developments of these kinds are impossible without an AI-focused chip designed to test and develop it. Apple jumping into it sooner than later is worth being excited about, not necessarily because we can guarantee greatness, but because there's plenty of potential for what it could bring in the future.

If WWDC 2024 is used as a first step for Apple to prove how AI will make iPadOS 18 better, it would make for an excellent showcase of the neural engine's capability. But it's also worth noting that the leak suggests M4 is exclusive to iPad Pro models, which means iPad Air will likely feature an M3. 

This could create a disparity between user experiences if it leans into its AI heavily. If all new iPad models are running iPadOS 18 and entire applications or features are off-limits, it could make a great point on the necessity of the technology in the company's plans. On the other hand, if its new feature lacks gusto, users could be even less convinced by the necessity of AI.

It's also possible that iPadOS 18 doesn't delve into AI quite yet, and instead, iPadOS 19 will be our first proper look. If so, we'll likely have to wait for compelling software to be developed once the M4 launches

The latest iPad models will be unveiled at Apple's Let Loose event, which goes live on Tuesday, May 7 at 7AM PT / 10AM ET / 2PM GMT and can be watched on Apple's website, Apple TV, or YouTube.

New iPad Pros with OLED screens are among Apple products expected this month. But unfortunately, if you had your heart set on the smaller (and cheaper) 11-inch iPad Pro, you might need to order as soon as they launch.

According to a recent post from analyst Ross Young shared with paid subscribers on X (via 9to5Mac), production of the upcoming 11-inch iPad Pro currently "looks to be behind" production of the larger 12.9-inch model. Production will certainly ramp up post-launch, but right now, it looks like the cheaper 11-inch iPad Pro might be harder to come by at launch compared to the 12.9-inch model.

New iPad Pros might sell out fast with OLED displays

On top of low production, Apple's upcoming iPad Pros might be in short supply simply as a result of an iPad with an OLED display being in high demand. The vivid colors and rich blacks you'll get with an OLED display are unmatched.

Young says that 11-inch OLED screens are only being produced by Samsung Display right now, while LG Display is currently producing 12.9-inch OLED panels. He went on to say that LG Display will start producing 11-inch OLED panels as well sometime this month, to hopefully help with the lower production numbers of 11-inch iPad Pros.

With the devices already in late production, it's possible that Apple could release its long-awaited OLED iPad Pros in late March or early April. And according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple might not announce the two iPad Pro models at a dedicated event, opting for a more low-key approach instead.

MORE FROM LAPTOP MAG

• I spent a week using the iPad Pro as a laptop — I ran back to Windows so fast
• Apple just patented a Vision Pro game controller – or did they?
• Skip the M3 MacBook Air, M4 MacBook Pros could arrive late 2024

In an exciting turn of events for Apple fans, it seems like the upcoming OLED iPad Pro might not be ridiculously priced, according to DigiTimes (via MacRumors). Initial rumors suggested that the next iPad Pro would get a huge price hike, between $500 and $700 for the 11-inch and 12.9-inch models, respectively.

Now, it seems the OLED iPad Pro might be receiving a much smaller $160 price increase. If this new estimate is correct, the 11-inch model would be available for less than $1,000, and the 12.9-inch model would be priced around $1,200 to $1,300.

Could an OLED iPad Pro be relatively affordable?

While DigiTimes is currently claiming that Apple's upcoming iPad Pro models with an OLED display will only receive a $160 price hike, there are no sources cited for this information. Other rumors have stated that the 11-inch iPad Pro could start at $1,500 and the 12.9-inch model could start at $1,800.

The only thing we know definitively right now is that there definitely will be a price increase between the current 11-inch and 12.9-inch models because the display technology is upgrading from mini-LED to OLED. And Apple isn't just springing for a traditional single OLED layer, either. The company plans on using tandem stack technology, which uses two emission layers, resulting in a brighter display with a longer lifespan.

A display upgrade like this isn't going to happen without a price hike. And honestly, $160 seems like quite a low estimate considering how much the new OLED panels will cost to manufacture. But until we hear directly from Apple, we'll hold out hope that this new, cheaper rumor holds true. 

For more details on the OLED iPad Pro and Apple's other upcoming tablets, check out our roundup of 2024 iPad line-up rumors, which is regularly updated. If we're lucky, Apple might officially announce the OLED iPad Pro sometime in March this year.

Apple hasn't released a new iPad since 2022 and while it was reported that a 14-inch iPad was on the cards for 2023, it seems those plans have been indefinitely shelved.

Since then it's been all quiet on the iPad front, save for the occasional rumor about the impending release of the iPad Mini 7. However, we may now be gearing up to see the full-scale iPad return as early as April or June of this year if a report from Korean outlet The Elec holds true.

Something OLED, something new

Reportedly, Samsung Display and LG are set to start manufacturing the "two-stack tandem OLED" panels expected to feature in new 11.1-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro models releasing later this year — potentially alongside a gigantic, non-OLED 16-inch iPad Air.

While OLED panels have been a part of Apple's catalog since the iPhone X, It's the first time that the display tech will feature in the brand's line of tablets. The shift to OLED brings the potential for brighter, richer displays with better contrast while also extending battery life through improved efficiency.

Outlook

This comes at a time of display tech transition for Apple as they continue to work toward a 2025 shift to micro-LED displays for Apple Watch devices, with iPhone adoption expected to follow thereafter.

Not only will these new iPad Pros feature all-new OLED panels, but they're also expected to include Apple's latest M3 silicon chips, affording them incredible performance potential and maintaining the plausibility of these devices to act as reliable laptop replacements (with the right setup or accessories).

Apple’s shift to OLED displays is less of a matter of will they, won’t they, and much more a matter of when will they, and how much more will it cost me? It’s one of the worst-kept secrets in tech. with the switch, plain as day, appearing so far out on the horizon it has me doubting the curvature of the Earth.

Thanks to a recent leak, purportedly outlining Apple’s OLED plans up until the distant future of 2029, we may now have our best look yet at what’s in store and what to expect — along with a few exciting surprises along the way.

Leaked Apple roadmap 2024-2029: Oléd, Oléd, Oléd!

The leaked roadmap, supplied by reputable tech tipster @Tech_Reve on Twitter/X, showcases Apple’s plans for the remainder of the 2020s — at least in regards to OLED display tech across its catalog of products.

Take this leak with a side order of salt lick, as not only can the information not be verified, but Apple is well known for changing its plans at a moment’s notice. However, similar roadmaps have leaked in the past and held up fairly well (though, admittedly, they don’t typically leave a company’s five-year plan more exposed than a Playboy centerfold).

Starting midway through 2024, the roadmap indicates the first devices beyond Apple’s iPhone to make the leap to the new display tech: an 11-inch and 13” OLED iPad Pro. It marks a subtle shift in size from the usual plus-sized 12.9-inch model, but nothing as drastic as the rumored 14-inch iPad Pro model recently canned by Apple at the last minute.

It’s then ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ for the next 12 months, likely to make room in the spotlight for Apple’s other upcoming display tech: Micro-LED. Expected to arrive at some point in 2025, Apple’s in-house manufactured Micro-LED panels are reported to feature in a refreshed Apple Watch and Apple Watch Ultra.

However, Apple’s ultimate goal is to eventually outfit the iPhone with Micro-LED displays too — though no word on when this switch might take place is currently available.

Back to our roadmap, the next wave of display upgrades could arrive in 2026 via Apple’s 14-inch and 16-inch OLED MacBook Pro laptops. A year later, in 2027, the MacBook Air looks set to follow suit — adopting OLED displays for both of the Air’s 13-inch and 15-inch models.

Flash forward another 12 months and the OLED rollout is completed with 21.5-inch, 27-inch, and 32-inch iMacs receiving the same refreshed display. 

But wait, there’s more

While we’ve covered the typical Apple stomping grounds of MacBooks, iPads, and iMacs, the leaked roadmap does indicate two additional products that are worth singling out: a 20.3-inch foldable iPad Pro reportedly arriving in mid-2026 and an enormous 42-inch iMac arriving late in 2028.

Foldables are quickly growing in popularity thanks to some undeniably great devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, OnePlus Open, and Google Pixel Fold. And, as we all know, now that much of the heavy lifting has been done in this market, it’s at this particular moment in time that Apple enjoys swooping in and gentrifying the space with a classy, pricey, and premium offering.

Apple has had plans for a foldable iPad readied in the chamber since as far back as 2019, with recent rumors spearheaded by the likes of Apple Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) analyst Ross Young also pointing to a 20.5-inch display being likely and the inclusion of a carbon fiber kickstand. While some have pointed to a 2024 release for Apple’s foldable slate, this is often disputed, and a 2026 arrival would be more generous for Apple to develop and release.

Finally, the absolute behemoth that would be a 42-inch iMac. It’s not the first time we’ve heard rumors of a gargantuan iMac on the horizon. Interestingly, this desk-dominating device is frequently linked to a future OLED display rollout too — further adding some credibility to its inclusion on this roadmap.

However, with its arrival reportedly happening toward the end of the decade, there’s no guarantee that this giant iMac will come to fruition. Still, that’s not to say it wouldn’t be an impressive feat for Apple to achieve. 

Outlook

Are we looking at Apple's official roadmap for it's OLED switchover? Unlikely. But that doesn't mean it's entirely wild speculation either. A lot of the dates included line up with industry insider and analyst insights.

If this isn't a leaked roadmap, it's at the very least a compilation of some of the more substantial leaks surrounding the inclusion of OLED displays across a wider range of Apple devices. These leaks are often backed by information obtained through manufacturers or sources close to the product's development.

That being said, rumors and leaks are rumors and leaks. And, if we believed them all blindly, the cubicle walls of a public bathroom would be the modern day equivalent of the library of Alexandria.

By no means take this information for fact. But you can take it as an loose outline of Apple's plans in regards to its OLED switchup, as it summarizes what's already been said by some of the industries most reliable sources.

You can use your iPad as a laptop, they say. Just connect your Magic Keyboard for the authentic laptop experience, they claim. No, say I — tippy tapping my fingertips across its thin polyurethane frame. It just doesn’t feel right. Though it could, and it may.

According to Bloomberg’s Apple auteur, Mark Gurman, there’s a Magic Keyboard revamp on the horizon, and it’ll bring the iPad-as-a-laptop experience one step closer to reality. 

That's more like it

The revamped Magic Keyboard seeks to better simulate the MacBook’s iconic deck with a larger trackpad, and even an aluminum façade. The leap to an aluminum body makes for a sturdier frame, avoiding many of the issues of wear and tear that the softer polymer that adorns the current model.

Fans of the folio look that the Magic Keyboard offers won’t be disappointed, as sources have revealed to Gurman that the external shell of Apple’s accessory won’t be switching to Space Grey aluminum any time soon — otherwise retaining the same chic look and style of the current model, potentially the same cantilever support, and including the Magic Keyboard’s familiar hinge-based USB-C port. 

Why it's exciting

Apple revamping the Magic Keyboard isn’t exactly stealing fire from the gods. But it could be a further indication of Apple’s plan to one day modularize the MacBook experience. We’ve previously covered news about patents relating to modular MacBook components, and this new iPad deck could be the Cupertino brand’s first step in that direction.

The patent in question gave us a glimpse at a MacBook composed of hot-swappable pieces to configure your laptop as you please. Including touchscreen displays, touchscreen input panels, and keyboard.

The switch to an aluminum frame for the Magic Keyboard’s deck might seem small, but it does play into the desire shown by Apple to give its powerful slate a more MacBook-like feel. Is the new Magic Keyboard going to be a part of this future modular MacBook experience? That’s unlikely.

The patent in question showcases a “base” component to which everything else connects. But this shift to a more accurate laptop feel could be paving the way for a more natural introduction of this modular design further down the line.

Outlook

The revamped Magic Keyboard is expected to release alongside new M3-powered iPad Pros, though there's no word on when to expect the announcement of these super-charged slates.

However, we don't expect them to be making an appearance during Apple's September event later this month. Nor would we expect them to make an appearance before Apple have announced its new line-up of M3 MacBook Pro models expected to launch at some point in October.

For news, rumors, and updates on all things iPad and Apple related, follow Laptop Mag on Twitter, Facebook, and Flipboard for the latest word as it arrives.

The MacBook has been a constant source of innovation for Apple and a recently uncovered patent by the invention investigators at Patently Apple might’ve discovered the Cupertino company’s MacBook end-game: a universal, hot-swappable, low-waste, and upgradeable modular MacBook Pro.

The patent, published earlier this week, showcases a number of use cases for an all-new modular computing system that allows individual components (screen, keyboard, etc.) to be slotted together in order to form a complete system.

Is this a direction Apple is likely to head in, or is it just another form of Apple patent trolling? Well, only Apple can say for sure. However, it would align with a number of the company’s interests, and the hardest part of getting this patent spun into a fully-fledged product has already been done. Let’s take a deeper look at the patent to learn more.

Build-a-Book: Plans to revolutionize the MacBook Pro 

Universally beloved tech is hard to come by. No matter how excellent your product may be, there’ll always be a critique from someone who would’ve preferred things just a little differently. Shipping a product that appeals to the widest possible audience is a constant balancing act between satisfying the needs of everyday users and that of the more professional or creative class of users.

So why not simply give users the ability to customize the device to perfectly suit their needs? According to USPTO patent number 11709527, That’s exactly what Apple has been exploring the possibilities of over the last two years.

The patent describes a “base” equipped with a hinge that acts as the foundation of any particular configuration. Users would then be able to connect (wirelessly or directly) additional modules such as screens, keyboards, touch panels, and more onto the base with each component linking together to complete the device.

Users aren’t limited to simple screen and keyboard configurations, either. The patent showcases a number of examples that include double and triple-screen configurations that rely on touch inputs or a wireless connection to a keyboard, the extension of a laptop deck with a sizable graphics tablet, and even shows a concept of the base working with a turntable record player for DJ’ing or music production purposes.

Even without just a screen attached, the base is able to detect touch, and near-touch inputs in order to act as a buttonless input device of sorts that allows for a very basic configuration that is wafer-like in thickness.

MacBook Pro All-in-One: The hard work is already done 

One of the more compelling reasons that Apple could be interested in doing more with this patent than letting it gather dust on a shelf somewhere comes down to a product they already have great success with — the iPad Pro.

Having been able to cram the incredible performance of the M2 Apple Silicon chipset into the iPad Pro in recent years, the device is now cable of a phenomenal amount of performance and a wide range of uses. However, to the majority of users, it’s still just a tablet.

You can expand on the iPad’s potential by adopting the Magic Keyboard or making use of the Apple Pencil, and further still with a docking station like the Plugable UDS-7IN1, however, you’re still simply emulating a MacBook experience.

This modular MacBook approach could feature the iPad front and center as the mastermind of a fully configurable experience designed to be as portable or stationary as required for each individual. 

Modular MacBook Pro: A solid Framework for the future 

Apple’s patent may seem a little out there in terms of plausibility, but the idea of a fully upgradeable and customizable laptop isn’t a new one. In fact, such a laptop already exists. We’re not talking about a one-off concept that turns heads at a few expos before never seeing the light of day again, either.

The Framework Laptop 13 is a fully upgradeable, customizable, and repairable device that is overhauling the electronics industry’s e-waste by delivering longer-lasting, modular machines capable of keeping pace with the latest and greatest by introducing the concept of incrementally upgrading your laptop like that of a desktop machine.

Framework’s laptop is an e-waste annihilator that could greatly expand the lifespan of laptops, and the follow-up to its 13-inch debutant is looking even more incredible — in fact, the Framework Laptop 16 could be the last laptop you ever buy. 

Outlook

We already know that under Tim Cook’s leadership, Apple has a primary focus on health and environmental impact. The brand is already powered by 100% renewable energy, and it’s currently aiming to become completely carbon-neutral by 2030.

Tackling the issue of e-waste when it comes to the production of its devices is no doubt something Apple has looked into for some time, and this patent showcases a way for the company to do exactly that.

As with every other patent of Apple’s we’ve seen to date, we can’t say for sure whether it will result in anything final. We can however compliment its ingenuity — though it might be time to start bringing these patents to life, as Apple is starting to look a little basic compared to the competition.

For news, rumors, and updates on all things Apple and tech, follow Laptop Mag on Twitter, Facebook, and Flipboard for the latest word as it arrives. 

Apple's 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 is one of the best tablets for students and work professionals. Right now, you can pick up the 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 (512GB) for $1,299 at Amazon. Normally $1,399, that's $100 in savings and the lowest price we've seen for this particular iPad. In fact, it's one of the best iPad deals we've since so far this year. 

If you're a student, teacher or parent, you can get the 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 for the same price from the Apple Education Store. As a bonus, you'll receive a free $100 Apple Gift Card with your purchase. 

Apple's 6th generation 12.9- inch iPad Pro brings faster performance to its big screen tablet. Super-charged with Apple's powerful M2 chip, it's powerful enough to replace your laptop (keyboard sold separately) The iPad Pro in this deal features a 12.9 inch (2388 x 1668) Liquid Retina XDR display, M2 8-core CPU, 8GB of RAM 10-core GPU and 128GB of storage. 

Although we didn't test it, iPad Pro 2022 reviews average 4.1 out of 5 stars at Amazon. Owners praise its fast M2 processor and Wi-Fi 6e connectivity. Apple's rates its new M2 chip as 15% faster than the M1 whereas the M2's GPU is 35% speedier. 

In our 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 review, we praise its incredible display, strong performance and impressive speakers. We also liked its killer cameras and decent battery life. We gave the 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 and a solid rating of 4.5 out of 5-stars and our Editor's Choice Award. 

During real-world use, our reviewer notes, "The Apple iPad Pro's 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR (2732 x 2048) display is the prettiest screen I've seen on a tablet and it's made all the better thanks to its adaptive 120Hz refresh rate."

In our lab's Geekbench 5 overall performance test, the iPad Pro M2 notched a score of 8500. That's higher than the previous-gen 12.9-inch iPad Pro M1 (7298). At 1.5 pounds, 11.04 x 8.46 x 0.25 inches, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 is light and svelte. For such a thin powerhouse with a big display, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 did rather well on our Laptop Mag Battery Test. It endured 10 hours and 40 minutes of continuous internet surfing over Wi-Fi at 150 nits of brightness. 

Port-wise, the iPad Pro M2 supplies you with a USB-C connector with support for Thunderbolt / USB 4. Plus, it supports Magic Keyboard and Smart Keyboard Folio as well as Apple Pencil 2. 

Now $100 off, the 12.9 Apple iPad Pro M2 deal is a recommended choice if you're looking for a versatile, premium productivity tablet.

One of the best Memorial Day sales of 2023 still available offers sweet savings on the latest iPad Pro M2. In a rare deal, you can get the  12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 for $999 at checkout via Amazon's on page-coupon. It typically costs $1,099, so that's $100 off and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 lowest price on Amazon since the holidays. 

This 12.9-inch iPad Pro rarely goes on sale so this is one iPad deal you don't want to miss. 

Today's best iPad Pro deal

Apple's 6th generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro brings faster performance to its big-screen tablet. Super-charged with Apple's powerful M2 chip, it's powerful enough to replace your laptop (keyboard sold separately) The iPad Pro in this deal features a 12.9 inch (2388 x 1668) Liquid Retina XDR display, M2 8-core CPU, 8GB of RAM 10-core GPU and 128GB of storage. 

Although we didn't test it, iPad Pro 2022 reviews average 4.1 out of 5 stars at Amazon. Owners praise its fast M2 processor and Wi-Fi 6e connectivity. Apple's rates its new M2 chip as 15% faster than the M1 whereas the M2's GPU is 35% speedier. 

In our 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 review, we praise its incredible display, strong performance and impressive speakers. We also liked its killer cameras and decent battery life. We gave the 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 a solid rating of 4.5 out of 5-stars and our Editor's Choice Award. 

During real-world use, our reviewer notes, "The Apple iPad Pro's 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR (2732 x 2048) display is the prettiest screen I've seen on a tablet and it's made all the better thanks to its adaptive 120Hz refresh rate."

In our lab's Geekbench 5 overall performance test, the iPad Pro M2 notched a score of 8500. That's higher than the previous-gen 12.9-inch iPad Pro M1 (7298). At 1.5 pounds, 11.04 x 8.46 x 0.25 inches, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 is light and svelte. For such a thin powerhouse with a big display, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 did rather well on our Laptop Mag Battery Test. It endured 10 hours and 40 minutes of continuous internet surfing over Wi-Fi at 150 nits of brightness. 

Port-wise, the iPad Pro M2 supplies you with a USB-C connector with support for Thunderbolt / USB 4. Plus, it supports Magic Keyboard and Smart Keyboard Folio as well as Apple Pencil 2. 

Now $100 off, the 12.9 Apple iPad Pro M2 deal is a recommended choice if you're looking for a versatile, premium productivity tablet.

I just recently reviewed the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6, and it is a killer all around tablet that straight up slays the competition — but what can the iPad Pro 2024 do better? What do we even know about the iPad Pro 2024? It might feel pretty far away, but it’ll get here sooner than you think.

There aren’t many rumors surrounding the iPad Pro 2024 so far, and with nothing official yet, it’s hard to say which to believe. Last year saw some more power with less battery life, so what could Apple have in store for the next iPad Pro update? (Give us back that battery life, please.)

Here’s everything we know so far about iPad Pro 2024, from the rumored release date and price to the specs and features.

iPad Pro 2024 release date

The Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 launched just recently in October 2022, and with the previous release schedule of the past generations of the iPad Pros, it’s likely that the next iPad Pro will launch in 2024, hence why we call it the iPad Pro 2024.

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman claimed that a new iPad Pro in 2023 is unlikely, so that leaves us with the potential of Spring 2024. That gives Apple 1.5 years between the 6th and 7th Gen iPad Pro — roughly the same amount of time between the 5th and 6th Gen releases.

iPad Pro 2024 pricing

Now that is where I’m going to get upset. The iPad Pro is already expensive as hell — we reviewed the $2,477 model, which came with all the accessories, but it wasn’t even fully specced out (that would be $2,877).

Unfortunately, there’s a supply chain report floating around that suggests a $700 price bump for the iPad Pro series. For those keeping track, that would jump the iPad Pro 11 from $800 to $1500 and the iPad Pro 12.9 from $1,100 to $1,800. No thank you. You might as well buy a MacBook.

iPad Pro 2024 specs

Back in January, Mark Gurman of Bloomberg indicated in his Power On newsletter that we’d get an updated design for the iPad Pro 2024. Previously, Gurman claimed that the 2022 model would feature wireless charging via MagSafe, and since that did not happen, it’s entirely possible we could get that in the iPad Pro 2024.

One of the more exciting rumors, which may explain the price bump rumor, is that the iPad Pro 2024 will get an OLED display, at least according to leaker Ross Young. Gurman also confirmed that might happen in the aforementioned newsletter. Apparently, the OLED display would transition to both iPad Pro models.

Young also spoke to MacRumors and claimed that the iPad Pro models would increase in size, to 11.1 and 13-inch display sizes. That just makes them ever-so-slightly bigger. Honestly, I don’t mind that, especially if it gives me more touchpad space in the Magic Keyboard.

In the most recent leak (Aug. 28), Mark Gurman wrote that there will be four iPad Pro models and all will feature Apple's new M3 chip. The four models were labeled as J717, J718, J720, and J721.

iPad Pro 2024 features

A lot of the news around iPad Pro 2024 is up in the air, especially when it comes to iPadOS 17, which might be what will launch with the new iPad Pro.

iPadOS 17 will likely introduce third-party app stores in accordance with a new European Union mandate (via Bloomberg). However, the rules won’t be enforced until 2024, so technically Apple has some time.

“Software engineering and service employees are engaged in a major push to open up key elements of Apple’s platforms, according to people familiar with the efforts,” Bloomberg journalist and Apple insider Mark Gurman said.

To top off the EU’s Digital Markets Act is likely going to be a wave of third-party browsers like Chrome and Firefox, which should now be able to use their own engines as opposed to the Apple WebKit variant.

There have also been rumors that, according to Analyst941 on Twitter (who previously leaked info about iOS 17 and watchOS 10), suggest there is a “special version of iPadOS 17, being developed specifically for larger iPad Pro/Ultra/Studio model(s).”

Outlook

The iPad Pro 2024 is shaping up to be an exciting piece of tech, if the rumors about the OLED display are true. While we are seeing signs of life from Android with the OnePlus Pad and soon the Pixel Tablet, Apple retains such a dominant lead in the tablet space — no one dares charge what Apple is charging and the fact that the company may charge more this time around makes me want to throw up. For more news and rumors about the iPad Pro 2024, stay tuned to this page right here.

Yes, the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 is a great tablet. Did you think Apple's iconic iPad was all talk? No, it's just that normal people can't afford it.

The iPad Pro offers a gorgeous 12.9-inch display, a great pair of accessories, bangin' speakers, powerful proprietary performance, and killer cameras all in a package that'll last longer than an average workday. Yeah, it's not very stylish, but that isn't as much of an eyesore as its $2,477 price (accessories included).

The Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 is easily one of the best tablets, and it would've been the perfect tablet if it didn't try to run your bank account dry. But if you're able to afford it, the iPad Pro makes too much sense not to get.

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 price and configurations

We reviewed the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 with an Apple M2 chip, Space Gray finish, 1TB of storage, Wi-Fi + Cellular, Apple Pencil Gen 2, and Magic Keyboard, which totaled up to a whopping $2,477.

In its most basic form, at 11 inches with 128GB of storage and just Wi-Fi, we drop to $799 (for the basic 12.9-inch, you cross over to $1,099). If you want the most stacked iPad Pro in the world, you're going to shell out $2,877, which is just like our model except with 2TB of storage.

The Apple tax isn’t for everyone — check out our best cheap tablets for something more affordable.

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 design

For a tablet that will cost you thousands of dollars, there should be more colors than gray and silver. Why does the iPad get a nice blue, pink, and yellow? Big miss. But overall, the iPad Pro is a sleek slate.

The Space Gray back of our unit might have been monotonous if it wasn’t an anodized metal that looked like stardust, tempting you to take a dip in its expanse. In the top left corner we see a pair of cameras, and at the bottom is the magnetic charging prong for the Magic Keyboard. 

The face of the tablet is clean as it's always been, with soft bezels that are barely noticeable. Centered at the top, we find a front-facing camera, while the top and bottom edges feature the speakers. The left and right sides feature the microphone and Apple Pencil magnetic charger, respectively. If you’re looking for the buttons, you’ll find the power at the top, and the volume buttons on the right. Meanwhile, the USB Type-C port resides at the bottom of the tablet.

At 1.5 pounds and 11 x 8.5 x 0.25 inches, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch is incredibly light and slim despite its size. The Apple iPad Air Gen 5 (1 pound, 9.7 x 7 x 0.24 inches) is naturally lighter and slimmer, but the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra (1.6 pounds, 12.9 x 8.2 x 0.22 inches) is heavier albeit even slimmer than the iPads.

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 display

The Apple iPad Pro's 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR (2732 x 2048) display is the prettiest screen I've seen on a tablet and it's made all the better thanks to its adaptive 120Hz refresh rate.

I watched Dimension 20's A Crown of Candy in preparation for The Ravening War, and the rolling hills of pink grass popped on the iPad's display. Even in the darkest corners of the dome, I could make out the smallest details of the set design thanks to how bright the panel was. And nothing was sharper than Brennan Lee Mulligan's pursed lips when the players did something ridiculous.

I'll talk about the touchpad in a bit, but the most natural way to navigate the iPad is obviously via the touch display. The screen is smooth and the responsiveness of the display is what I'd expect out of a $2K+ product. It doesn't make me tea in the morning, but that's fine.

According to our colorimeter, the iPad Pro hit 82.4% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, which is good, but it could be better considering the premium price. The iPad Air and Galaxy Tab covered 79.2% and 154.9%, respectively. For the sRGB color gamut, the iPad Pro covered 117.1%. 

At 591 nits (1577 nits peak with HDR), the brightness is where the iPad Pro truly shines, and that's incredibly important considering that it has a glossy display. With these brightness levels, you shouldn't have much trouble gallivanting around the outdoors with it. The iPad Air averaged 485 nits, while the Galaxy Tab hit 583 nits. 

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 Magic Keyboard & Apple Pencil 2

It’s no shock that the Magic Keyboard ($349) is small, so I thought I was going to hate it, but I am pleasantly wrong — it is the superior way to type on the iPad Pro.

I only managed 75 words per minute on the 10fastfingers.com typing test, which isn’t bad compared to my usual 78-wpm average. The deck is small and the keys are scrunched together to fit within the iPad’s profile, but it won’t take long to adjust.

What I love most about the Magic Keyboard is how sturdy it is thanks to its angled design. No matter where you put it, it’s not going to fall apart like the tablet/keyboard covers of yore. The magnetic attachments stick to the top part of the cover while the bottom stays bent inward, so the tablet stays top heavy in the right direction. This is one of the best solutions I’ve seen for flimsy keyboard covers.

The most awkward thing about the Magic Keyboard is that it’s hard to use the iPad Pro as just a tablet with the cover, because unlike other tablet covers, it doesn’t flip 360 degrees due to the aforementioned angled design.

The touchpad is not so bad — it’s smooth and offers a decent click, but you can’t ignore how frustratingly small it is. And that’s mostly due to the angled design I like so much, because once the iPad is facing you, it hovers over the top keys. If Apple gave any more room for the touchpad, the keys would be awkwardly placed past the tablet.

The Apple Pencil 2 ($129) is as good as it always was. I drew a little creepy straw man threatening to kill the viewer, and the Pencil swiftly followed my movements without issue. I love that you can easily charge the pencil by throwing it on top of the iPad Pro — brilliant design choice.

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 audio

Whoa — the iPad Pro’s four-speaker setup is loud and proud, filling my office space with bangin’ tunes.

I listened to SKYLAR’s “Double Denim” because that’s just been my hyper-fixation recently, and the opening guitar riff immediately popped off with a hearty bass, guiding in the rhythmic vocals. It almost felt like I was listening to my own personal concert. Then the chorus blasted through, and while the percussion wasn’t as prominent as I wanted it to be, the levels between the instruments were still distinguishable.

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 performance

Naturally, the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 is packing the company’s proprietary M2 chip, which is no joke. It easily raced through several dozen Safari tabs without so much as blinking twice.

On the Geekbench 5 overall performance test, the iPad Pro scored a beefy 8500, sliding past the iPad Air’s M1 chip (7151) and the Galaxy Tab’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip (3380).

The iPad Pro scored 288 on the JetStream 2 JavaScript and WebAssembly benchmark suite, which again surpassed the iPad Air (207) as well as the Galaxy Tab (126).

In terms of the graphics testing, the iPad Pro averaged 39 frames per second on the 3DMark Wild Life Extreme Unlimited Benchmark, which is the only tablet that passed the 30-fps playable threshold. The iPad Air got 29 fps, while the Galaxy Tab fell behind at 13 fps.

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 battery life

For such a thin powerhouse with a big display, it’s a surprise that the iPad Pro did rather well with its battery life. On the Laptop Mag battery test, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch lasted 10 hours and 40 minutes. It outpaced the iPad Air (10:09) as well as the Galaxy Tab (9:23). However, the battery life is actually shorter than the iPad Pro Gen 5, which lasted 11 hours and 59 minutes.

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 cameras

I think this is the first time I’ve reviewed something with cameras that don’t suck. There are technically three cameras on board the iPad Pro, including 12MP front and rear cameras as well as a 10MP UltraWide rear camera.

Selfies first — the 12MP front camera did an excellent job capturing the mid-workday sweat in my cheeks and the sharp strands of hair in my patchy beard. Unlike most test shots I’ve done, my freckles didn’t disappear in my skin and were in fact quite bold. The green in my shirt was a little paler than it actually is, but it caught the miniscule details white fuzz all around it. The contrast was well balanced, too, as the light from outside didn’t wash out any part of my skin.

Now the 12MP rear camera (1x) — I snapped a shot from my upstairs window into the suburbia of New Jersey, and the camera was detailed enough to snag all of the smudges on my window first and foremost. The field of trees outside were various shades of green and I could make out individual leaves that popped out of the few of the closest ones. There was a lot of overcast outside, but that didn’t stop the camera from being able to distinguish separate clouds from one another.

Finally, the 10MP UltraWide rear camera (0.5x) — I snapped the same scene in the aforementioned section, but I was surprised by how much more I could see. First off, the clouds were way more easily distinguished in this photo and I could see whole swathes of blue between them. Even though it’s only 2MP off, I could see a difference in the sharpness when zooming into that same tree as below — the leaves are a little more muddled together. However, I could see way more of my neighbor’s backyard and the camera even caught a whole two extra trees that weren’t there before.

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 iPadOS

iPadOS 17 will be on its way soon enough, but right now we’ve got iPadOS 16 on this baby. There are a few cool new features included in iPadOS 16 that we’ll talk about, such as Stage Manager and Apple Pencil hover.

Stage Manager is a slick new feature that basically lets you manage your apps like tabs in a browser. So while I was drawing, I could see Safari, Messages, and Music on the side. Switching back and forth is super easy, and I can even adjust the size of the windows to full-screen or even smaller, which makes this feature an instant-on for me.

With Apple Pencil hover, you can quickly preview and switch between different tools and controls in supported apps. That means you can see a little preview marker for where the pencil is going to drop, and you can do the same with the eraser function.

The iPad Pro comes with a one-year limited warranty. See how Apple performed on our Tech Support Showdown and Best and Worst Brands ranking.

Bottom line

Are you an artist or creative that needs to work on the go? The Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch Gen 6 is the best choice for a go-to tablet, but the choice itself actually isn't that simple. Let's be honest here, there's not a lot of competition coming for iPads, which is why Apple can charge thousands of dollars for this product. 

If you want to save some money, you could go with the iPad Air (starting at $599) — cutting out those accessories alone will save you practically half a grand.

As long as you can afford it, the Apple iPad Pro is the best tablet you can buy.

Keeping up with the latest ongoings in the tech world can be hard enough as it is, competition is fierce and there's always at least one manufacturer trying something new to pull ahead of the pack. With WWDC and Google I/O on the horizon, we've been doused with more leaks than a rundown brownstone, with information pouring out to such a degree it's sometimes hard to keep your head above water.

However, not all of those leaks point towards the immediate releases these showcases are likely to unveil. Some of these leaks are giving us insight into what's to come over the next few years for the biggest brands in tech.

For example, a recent tweet by tech enthusiast and reputable leaker Revegnus has big claims about what Apple has in store for iPad fans in 2024.

Creator class

The tweet in question suggests the inclusion of an M3 Pro chip inside at least one model of Apple's next iPad devices. Not only that, but that the next iPadOS update could bring many macOS features along with it. Affording the iPad the power and potential functionality of an Apple detachable, and not just the larger iPhone it's sometimes compared to.

It was already great news for fans of Apple's slate when the notion of an M2 Pro chip might be in store, but with the idea of Apple's M3 Pro chip taking centre stage, fans of the iPad have an incredible upgrade to look forward to.

While Revegnus' tweet is short on the details his reported information about the 14.1-inch iPad does line up with leaks from another reputable source on Twitter, Analyst941.

In this tweet, Analyst941 claims that the future iPad 14.1-inch model's support for dual 6K (@ 60Hz) external displays is a serious indicator of an M3 Pro chip. Not only that, but they also point towards a specialized version of macOS 17 for larger Pro/Ultra/Studio iPad models specifically.

He also claims that 1:1 versions of Final Cut Pro, and Logic Pro will be making their way to iPadOS in 2024, and 2025 respectively.

Outlook

If these leaks turn out to be true, the 14.1-inch iPad, expected to arrive at some point next year, could be an incredible powerful creator-class device that could be the heart of many content creator workstations. Bringing the iPadOS infrastructure in-line with that of macOS could unlock some incredible apps and really let the iPad flaunt its stuff.

Keep your eyes peeled to Laptop Mag for more information about Apple's latest 14.1-inch iPad as it arrives. 

If the price of Apple’s latest iPad Pro already made your eyes water, then you’re unlikely to appreciate news coming from Korean electronics media group The Elec.

A recent report delved into the manufacturing cost of next year’s expected iPad release — covering both the price Apple is likely to pay for its premium OLED displays and how much the resulting iPad Pro will cost consumers on release.

The good news

Apple isn’t skimping out on the rumored OLED panel that’s set to appear in the next wave of iPads. The report claims that, similarly to the most recent lineup, 2024’s iPad Pro models will be available in two sizes 11-inch and 12.9-inch.

Both will be making the switch from mini-LED to premium OLED panels, with the smaller and larger panels costing $270 and $350 to manufacture respectively. That means the panel for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro is alone worth more than the base price of 2021’s 9th Gen iPad.

The high cost of manufacturing is likely down to the tandem stack technology Apple is reportedly planning to make use of. Tandem stack, as the name implies, uses two emission layers (as opposed to a traditional single OLED layer), which doubles the brightness of the display and can quadruple its lifespan.

They also draw about 30% less power than traditional OLED panels, which suits Apple’s energy-efficient approach to tech nicely.

The result is a brighter, more colorful, battery-friendly, and long-lasting display. It’ll also be thinner than the mini-LED panel too, which could afford the iPad an even slimmer frame. 

The bad news

The 12.9-inch iPad Pro released in 2021 reportedly cost around $510 to produce and had a recommended retail price (RRP) of $1,099. That’s a markup of over 50%, which is seemingly Apple’s general attitude toward the pricing of its products.

The Elec’s report indicates that the total costs of manufacturing Apple’s new OLED iPad could result in an RRP of $1,300 for the 11-inch model and $1,800 for the 12.9-inch model. In contrast, the current 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models had a launch price starting from $799 and $1,099.

That’s a price hike of about $500 to $700 just to get your hands on the base models. Factor in any accessories you may need such as keyboards, cases, or stands and the price becomes even more inflated — practically extortionate. 

Outlook

Paying up to $1,800 for a tablet might seem like lunacy to most — you’re better off investing in a mid-tier MacBook Pro M2 at that price. However, the iPad Pro has found a solid audience when it comes to professionals, artists, and designers.

If Apple’s latest firmware update (iPadOS 17) gives this audience even more ways to make the most of the iPad Pro’s impressive performance and features, then a fair number would still be willing to part with the cash.

The average person though? I don’t see those prices leaving the iPad Pro in quite as desirable of a position as it once may have been.

The Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro M1 is one of the best tablets to buy if you want laptop power in a portable device. For a limited time and stock permitting, you can get the 12.9-inch iPad Pro M1 with 5G support for $999 at Woot. This version normally costs $1299, so that's a massive $300 in savings. This is the lowest price we've tracked for it and one of the best iPad deals out there. 

As an alternative, you can get the Wi-Fi-only 12.9-inch iPad Pro M1 for $899 ($200 off) at Amazon.

12.9-inch iPad Pro M1 deal

Apple's 12.9-inch iPad Pro is one of the most powerful big screen tablets around. Pair it with an optional Apple Magic Keyboard or Apple Smart Keyboard Folio and it easily replaces your laptop. It also supports Apple Pencil (2nd generation) for sketching, drawing and note-taking.

The iPad Pro in this deal packs a 12.9-inch Retina XDR Display, M1 8-core processor, 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. 

In our 12.9-inch iPad Pro review, we found its bright and vivid display and slim, durable chassis impressive. In tests, its ridiculously fast M1 processor was astonishing. We gave the 12.9-inch iPad Pro an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5-stars rating and our coveted Editor's Choice award. 

The 12.9-inch iPad Pro has the same aluminum, thin-bezel design as its predecessor. At 1.5 pounds and 0.25-inches thin, it's lightweight enough for everyday carry. 

Simply put, the  12.9-inch iPad Pro M1 is super-portable, fast, and lasts up to 11 hours on a full charge. It's a solid buy if you're in the market for a tablet that doubles as a laptop. 

Woot deals typically sell out fast, so we recommend you grab this fantastic iPad Pro deal while you still can. 

Update March 29 at 5:42 p.m. ET: Amazon ended this deal but offers the 128GB model 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 for $1,049 ($50 off). 

Apple's 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 with 512GB of storage just hit its best price yet. So if you're on the hunt for a tablet to replace your laptop, this deal is for you. Currently, Amazon has the 512GB model 12.9-inch Apple iPad Pro M2 on sale for $1,199. It usually costs $1,399, that's $200 in savings and the lowest price we've tracked for this Apple tablet. 

Outside of the holidays, this is one of the best iPad deals you can get.

Super-charged with Apple's powerful M2 chip, the 2022 iPad Pro is powerful enough to replace your laptop (keyboard sold separately). The iPad Pro in this deal features a 12.9 inch (2388 x 1668) Liquid Retina XDR display, M2 8-core CPU, 8GB of RAM 10-core GPU and 512GB of storage. 

Although we didn't test it, iPad Pro 2022 reviews at Amazon average 4.1 out of 5- stars. Satisifed owners praise its fast M2 processor and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. Apple's rates its M2 chip as 15% faster than the M1 whereas the M2's GPU is 35% speedier. 

In our 12.9-inch M1 iPad Pro review, we found it to be incredibly fast so we expect the 2022 iPad Pro to be on par with handling graphics-intensive tasks and should process more efficiently and smoothly.

At 1.5 pounds, 11.04 x 8.46 x 0.25 inches, the 12.9-inch M2 iPad Pro is identical in mass to the 12.9-inch M1 iPad Pro. It supplies you with a USB-C connector with support for Thunderbolt / USB 4 and works with Apple Pencil 2, Magic Keyboard and Smart Keyboard Folio. 

Now $200 off, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 is a solid buy if you want the power of a laptop and the portability of a tablet. 

Apple's 11-inch iPad Pro packs the M2 processing power of MacBook M2 into a portable tablet. And with an optional keyboard attached, it can double as a laptop. 

Currently, Amazon offers the 11-inch iPad Pro for $729 at checkout via an on-page coupon. Typically $799, that's $70 in savings and the second lowest price we've seen this iPad sell for at Amazon. Looking for the cheapest iPad you can get? Target offers the entry model 2021 iPad for $249 ($80 off). 

These are two of the best iPad deals we've tracked since the start of the year.

Apple's 2022 iPad Pro is one of the best tablets to buy and brings faster performance to its pro-grade series. It retains the same gorgeous 11-inch (2388 x 1668) Liquid Retina display — now powered by Apple's M2 processor with enhanced GPU. 

Although we didn't test it, iPad Pro 2022 reviews average 4.1 out of 5 stars at Amazon. Owners praise its fast M2 processor and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. Apple's rates its new M2 chip as 15% faster than the M1 whereas the M2's GPU is 35% speedier. 

In our 2021 iPad Pro review, we found it to be incredibly fast. We expect the 2022 iPad Pro to be on par with handling graphics-intensive tasks. Everything should process more efficiently and smoothly.

So if you want a powerful, versatile tablet to replace your laptop, the iPad Pro is a solid buy.  

Apple's iPad Pro M1 is powerful enough to double as a laptop or drawing tablet.  Although the iPad Pro M2 has taken away some of its spotlight, the iPad Pro M1 is still one of the best tablets around.  

Currently, Amazon offers the 1TB 11-inch iPad Pro for $1,199. That's a whopping $300 off its normal price of $1,499. This is one of the lowest prices we've ever seen for this configuration. In fact, it's one of the best iPad deals we've tracked so far this year.

Apple's M1 iPad Pro offers everything you could ever want in a productivity tablet. The iPad in this deal features a stunning 11-inch Retina Display, Apple M1 8-core chip, 8GB of RAM and 8-core graphics. With 1TB of storage built-in, you'll have ample room to safekeep important files. 

In our M1 iPad Pro 2021 (12.9-inch) review, we loved its bright and vivid XDR display and slim, durable chassis. We were also floored by its ridiculously fast M1 processor. We gave the iPad Pro 12.9-inch a 4.5 out of 5-star rating and our Editor's Choice award. 

During real-world testing, apps opened instantly and websites blinked onto the screen. Navigating the iPad's OS was a pleasantly smooth and lag-free experience. The iPad Pro endured nearly 11 hours on our Laptop Mag Battery Test of continuous web browsing over Wi-Fi at 150 nits. For versatile use, the iPad Pro M1 supports Apple Magic Keyboard, Smart Keyboard Folio and Apple Pencil (2nd generation).

If you're in the market for a tablet, the iPad Pro M1 is a wise choice if versatility, speed and a gorgeous display are important to you. 

Right now, you can get the M2 iPad Pro for its cheapest ever price from B&H — a great option for creative pros with a significant $70 saving.

Easily one of the best tablets that money can buy is now even better with a decent discount that makes it all the more worthwhile. We're surprised to see it so cheap, so early in the year. This is Black Friday tier!

Apple's iPad Pro is the most powerful tablets money can buy — super portable, super fast, and last up to 11 hours on a full charge. This 11-inch model packs all the same big specs as its 12.9-inch sibling: a Liquid Retina XDR Display with ProMotion, the blazing fast M2 processor, 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. 

The hardware differences are incremental, as you'll see in our iPad Pro 2021 review, but the increased performance of that M2 processor makes this a great option for creative pros. In short, the iPad Pro is versatile and powerful enough to replace your laptop. (Yes, even one of the best laptops or MacBook Pros.)

This iPad deal is doomed to die out soon, so snatch one before they're gone, Apple fanatics!  

Apple deals are off to an impressive start this year with notable discounts on select iPads. If you're looking for the best tablet to replace your laptop, this deal is just for you. 

Amazon currently offers the 12.9-inch iPad Pro M2 for $1,299 — its lowest price ever. Traditionally priced at $1,399, that's $100 in savings and one of the best iPad deals we've tracked all month.

Released in 2022, Apple's 12.9 inch iPad Pro M2 brings faster performance to its big screen tablet. Super-charged with Apple's powerful M2 chip, it's powerful enough to replace your laptop (keyboard sold separately) The iPad Pro in this deal features a 12.9 inch (2388 x 1668) Liquid Retina XDR display, M2 8-core CPU, 8GB of RAM 10-core GPU and 512GB of storage. 

Although we didn't test it, iPad Pro 2022 reviews average 4.1 out of 5 stars at Amazon. Owners praise its fast M2 processor and Wi-Fi 6e connectivity. Apple's rates its new M2 chip as 15% faster than the M1 whereas the M2's GPU is 35% speedier. 

In our 12.9-inch M1 iPad Pro review, we found it to be incredibly fast so we expect the 2022 iPad Pro to be on par with handling graphics-intensive tasks and should process more efficiently and smoothly.

At 1.5 pounds, 11.04 x 8.46 x 0.25 inches, the 12.9-inch M2 iPad Pro is identical in mass to the 12.9-inch M1 iPad Pro. It supplies you with a USB-C connector with support for Thunderbolt / USB 4 and works with Apple Pencil 2, Magic Keyboard and Smart Keyboard Folio. 

At $100 off, the 12.9 iPad Pro M2 is at its best price yet. It's a solid buy if you want the power of a laptop with the portability of a tablet. 

Apple's rumored iPad Pro 2024 is still a while away, but a new report from The Elec suggests that the Cupertino tech giant is planning to launch new iPads with OLED panels, as Samsung is shifting priorities for a new type of display.

Spotted by MacRumors, the report states that Samsung Display, Apple's display supplier, is now prioritizing the development of a "two-stack tandem OLED panel" with the "aim to supply OLED panels for tablets to Apple." We've recently seen the launch of the iPad Pro 2022 with M2, meaning we won't see this rumored OLED iPad for a while. 

As the report points out, Samsung Display is planning on postponing the development of full-cut OLED displays with a single layer, which is supplied to PC makers like Asus. Instead, it will focus on two stack tandem OLED panels, which Apple has asked for.

We've recently heard of Apple making the shift to OLED on other products, including the OLED MacBook Air that's expected to launch in 2024. This comes from display industry consultant Ross Young, who states that the 2024 MacBook Air and both the iPad Pros are set to get what is called “two-stack” OLED displays with ProMotion. This backs up The Elec's report.

Of course, it's a good idea to take this in with a pinch of salt, as we're still over a year away from Apple officially announcing a new MacBook Air or iPad Pro with OLED displays. Currently, there are no Mac or iPad products that use OLED, only LCD and mini-LED panels. By using OLED, you can expect improved brightness and a better contract ratio, along with the possibility of improved battery life.

Before any OLED iPad or OLED MacBook Air in 2024, we're expecting to see new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with M2 Pro and M2 Max, along with Apple's next set of flagships: the iPhone 15 and even an iPhone 15 Ultra. 

The M2 iPad Pro has only been out for a month, but you can already save $50 and $100 off the 11-inch and 12.9-inch models, respectively, in perhaps the most surprising Cyber Monday tablet deal we've seen...so far. 

Pro tip: either iPad pairs pretty perfectly with one of the best Cyber Monday streaming deals we've uncovered over the weekend, not to mention the best streaming device deals. (Heck, anything Apple-compatible goes with this deal, OK?)

Why is this Cyber Monday deal so damn surprising? As a rule, Apple usually puts their last-gen tech on sale first; we rarely spy Apple Cyber Monday deals on the company's latest-and-greatest tech toys. But this year the Apple gods are kind, apparently, since not only are the AirPods Pro 2 $50 off, but the M2 iPad Pro is on the chopping block, too. Zounds! 

Apple's iPad Pros are the most powerful tablets money can buy. They're super portable, super fast, and last up to 11 hours on a full charge. Both iPad Pros in this Cyber Monday deal pack a Liquid Retina XDR Display with ProMotion, the blazing fast M2 processor, 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. 

The hardware differences are incremental, as you'll see in our iPad Pro 2021 (12.9-inch) review, but the increased performance of that M2 processor makes this a great option for creative pros. In short, the iPad Pro is versatile and powerful enough to replace your laptop. (Yes, even one of the best laptops or MacBook Pros.)

This iPad deal is doomed to die out soon, so snatch one before they're gone, Apple fanatics!  

Apple Cyber Monday deals arrive early with $250 off the 12.9-inch iPad Pro at Target. Still one of the best iPads for power-users, it is now significantly cheaper than the new M2 iPad Pro.  

For Cyber Monday only, you can get the 2021 Apple iPad Pro 512GB for $849 at Target. In fact, whichever storage option you choose, whether it be 128GB or 1TB, you now get $250 off. 

• Shop: Target's entire Cyber Monday sale
• Best Cyber Monday 2022 deals
• Best Apple Cyber Monday deals 

Apple's 11-inch iPad Pro is one of the best tablets to buy. It's fast, portable and lasts up to 10 hours on a full belly. The base model iPad Pro packs a 11-inch liquid Retina Display, M1 8-core processor, 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. 

As we discuss in our iPad Pro 12.9 review, it features a bright and vivid display and slim, durable chassis. During real world tests, its M1 processor's speed and performance was stellar. We gave the 12.9-inch iPad Pro an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5-stars rating and our coveted Editor's Choice award. 

While the 2021 iPad Pro has the same aluminum construction as the 2020 release, it packs a much harder punch especially when paired with the Magic Keyboard making it as powerful as Apple's M1 Macbook Air. Sitting at 1.5 pounds and just 0.25-inches thin, it makes the perfect travel companion. Its portability is on par with the 14.6-inch Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra (1.3 pounds, 0.2 inches) and 12.3-inch Microsoft Surface Pro 8 (2.0 pounds, 0.4 inches). 

Cyber Monday is on November 28th and we're expecting to see weeklong savings on today's most coveted gadgets. Check out our Cyber Monday deals hub for the best discounts happening now.

The M2 iPad Pro has only been out for a month, but you can already get up to $100 off both the 11-inch and 12.9-inch models in probably the most surprising Black Friday deal so far.

Why is it surprising? Well, the common rule is that we never see Black Friday Apple deals on the latest tech from the company — normally, sales focus on previous generation stuff. But this year is defying the odds, as not only are the AirPods Pro 2 $50 off, but the M2 iPad Pro is on the chopping board too!

Apple's iPad Pros are the most powerful tablets money can buy. It's super portable, fast, and lasts up to 11 hours on a full charge. Both iPad Pros pack a Liquid Retina XDR Display with ProMotion, the blazing fast M2 processor, 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. 

The hardware differences are iterative over the already fantastic M1 iPad Pro, but the increased performance of the M2 makes this a great option for creative pros.io support, the iPad Pro is versatile and powerful enough to replace your laptop.

iPad Pro deals this generous are only as good as stock permits, so don't hestitate too long.

Amazon now offers the 2022 iPad Pro for $729 . It normally retails for $799, so that's $70 off — its biggest discount ever. This marks a new price low for this Apple tablet and one of the best early Black Friday iPad deals available.

This 2022 iPad Pro Black Friday deal arrive just in time for the holidays. If you don't want to wait, snag Apple's latest iPad Pro for an all-time low price today. 

Apple's 2022 iPad Pro is one of the best tablets to buy and brings faster performance to its pro-grade series. It retains the same gorgeous 11-inch (2388 x 1668) Liquid Retina display — now powered by Apple's M2 processor with enhanced GPU. 

Although we didn't test it, iPad Pro 2022 reviews average 4.1 out of 5 stars at Amazon. Owners praise its fast M2 processor and Wi-Fi 6e connectivity. Apple's rates its new M2 chip as 15% faster than the M1 whereas the M2's GPU is 35% speedier. 

In our 2021 iPad Pro review, we found it to be incredibly fast so we expect the 2022 iPad Pro to be on par with handling graphics-intensive tasks should process more efficiently and smoothly.

As an alternative, you can get the 2021 iPad Pro for $699 ($100 off) at Best Buy. It's nearly identical to the latest iPad Pro only that it runs on last year's M1 processor. At $150 less than the M2 iPad Pro, the M1 iPad Pro is a great value for the price. 

If you plan to pick up a new tablet for yourself or someone special this holiday season, you can't go wrong with the iPad Pro. 

More early Black Friday iPad deals 

iPad Black Friday deals arrive early with up to $400 off the 12.9-inch iPad Pro at Best Buy. Still one of the best iPads for power-users, it's now significantly cheaper than the new M2 12.9 iPad Pro.  

Best Buy currently offers the 12.9-inch iPad Pro starting at $799 — its lowest price ever. It normally costs $1,099, so that's $300 in savings and costs $400 less than the 2022 iPad Pro. This is one of the best early Black Friday deals you can get.

Apple's 12.9-inch iPad Pro is one of the best tablets to buy. It's fast, portable and lasts up to 11 hours on a full belly. The base model iPad Pro packs a 12.9-inch Retina XDR Display, M1 8-core processor, 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. 

As we discuss in our iPad Pro 12.9 review, it features a bright and vivid display and slim, durable chassis. During real world tests, its M1 processor's speed and performance was outstanding. We gave the 12.9-inch iPad Pro an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5-stars rating and our coveted Editor's Choice award. 

By design, the 2021 12.9-inch iPad Pro has the same aluminum, thin-bezel construction as the 2020 release. At 1.5 pounds and 0.25-inches thin, it's lightweight enough for everyday carry. Its portability is on par with the 14.6-inch Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra (1.3 pounds, 0.2 inches) and 12.3-inch Microsoft Surface Pro 8 (2.0 pounds, 0.4 inches). 

With Magic Keyboard and Smart Keyboard Folio support, the iPad Pro doubles as a laptop. It also works with Apple Pencil (2nd generation) if you want to take notes, sketch or draw on the iPad. 

Black Friday 2022 is on Nov. 25 and we're tracking the best early holiday deals on iPad. For the best end-of-year discounts on all things Apple, be sure to visit our Apple Black Friday deals hub.

The first 2022 iPad Pro price drop is here for the holidays. Right now, Apple's latest iPad Pro release is down to an all-time low price. 

Amazon continues to offer the 2022 iPad Pro for $749 . It normally retails for $799, so that's $50 off — its first discount ever. This marks a new price low for this Apple tablet and one of the best early Black Friday iPad deals available. 

Apple's 2022 iPad Pro is one of the best tablets to buy and brings faster performance to its pro-grade series. It retains the same gorgeous 11-inch (2388 x 1668) Liquid Retina display — now powered by Apple's M2 processor with enhanced GPU. 

Although we didn't test it, iPad Pro 2022 reviews average 4.1 out of 5 stars at Amazon. Owners praise its fast M2 processor and Wi-Fi 6e connectivity. Apple's rates its new M2 chip as 15% faster than the M1 whereas the M2's GPU is 35% speedier. 

In our 2021 iPad Pro review, we found it to be incredibly fast so we expect the 2022 iPad Pro to be on par with handling graphics-intensive tasks should process more efficiently and smoothly.

As an alternative, you can get the 2021 iPad Pro for $699 ($100 off) at Best Buy. It's nearly identical to the latest iPad Pro only that it runs on last year's M1 processor. At $150 less than the M2 iPad Pro, the M1 iPad Pro is a great value for the price. 

If you plan to pick up a new tablet for yourself or someone special this holiday season, you can't go wrong with the iPad Pro. 

The M1 iPad Pro is one of Apple's most powerful iPads to date. Although the M1 iPad Pro is the M2 iPad Pro's predecessor, it is still a beastly machine. For a limited time, this top-of-the-line Apple tablet is on sale for a rock-bottom price.

Currently, Amazon offers the 11-inch M1 iPad Pro, packed with 256GB of storage, for only $799. That is more than $100 in savings; this configuration typically retails for about $900.  This one of the best iPad deals we've seen so far this year.

By the way, Black Friday is right around the corner, so be sure to bookmark our Black Friday live blog so you can benefit from pre-Black Friday deals, and get a preview of what to expect, before the mad, post-Thanksgiving scramble.

Yes, this incredibly powerful laptop runs on the M1 chip, the same processor that powers the M1 MacBook Air and the M1 MacBook Pro. The 11-inch iPad Pro in this deal packs an 11-inch Retina Display, Apple's custom M1 chip and 256GB of storage.

We didn't test this particular size (11-inch), but in our M1 iPad Pro 2021 (12.9-inch) review, we adored the tablet's bright and vivid XDR display as well as its slim, durable chassis. We were also floored by its ridiculously fast M1 processor. We gave the iPad Pro 12.9-inch a 4.5 out of 5-star rating and it also earned our prestigious Editor's Choice award. 

The M1 iPad Pro is a solid choice if you want a tablet with portability, speed, a gorgeous display and up to 10 hours of battery life. And with Apple Pencil (2nd generation), Magic Keyboard, and Smart Keyboard support, the iPad Pro can function as a digital canvas and/or laptop.

As with all iPad Pro deals, we suspect this one won't last too long. Hurry and snatch this one up before this discount disappears!